Taskin returns as Shakib fit to bowl in 2nd Test against India

 Dhaka, 21 Dec  - Bangladesh got news to savour ahead of the second and final Test against India as Shakib Al Hasan is declared fit to bowl while fast bowler Taskin Ahmed returned to the fold.

Shakib, the Bangladesh captain couldn't bowl in India's second innings in the first Test in Chattogram after sustaining injury on his rib and shoulder. He though batted and made a counterattacking 84 runs in the second innings as Bangladesh lost the game by 188 runs, chasing an improbable target of 513-run.

It was believed that Shakib would play only as batter in the second Test, starting tomorrow (Wednesday) at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.

It was a blow for the team since Sher-e-Bangla pitch is used to provide rage turner and variable bounce. While Shakib's bowling in this pitch is always crucial, his absence as bowler also disrupt the team combination, since he always gives Bangladesh a luxury of 2 in 1 player.

Bangladesh fast bowling coach Alan Donald, however conveyed the good news, saying that Shakib is now fit to bowl.

"Shakib is okay, he will bowl. He was bruised and battered in the one-day game here, but he has gone through that. He is available for selection, and available to bowl," Donald said here today.

"Any selectors here? (laughs) If I am talking out of the room a little bit, it will be the same three spinners and welcoming back Taskin and Khaled as well. Sorry to the selectors but I am talking out of the room a little bit. That's what I can see happening. Good news is that Shakib is good to go. Looking at the pitch, I think he will very much come into play," he added.

But to Bangladesh's dismay their best Test bowler at this moment, Ebadot Hossain would have to take rest as he sustained a side strain and also was unable to bowl in the second innings of Chattogram Test like Shakib. Ebadot will be replaced by Taskin Ahmed, said Donald.

"Taskin is good to go. He wanted to play the last Test but he was very much short of a gallop in terms of rhythm. The build-up in the last Test was crucial for him. He is looking forward to the contest," he informed.