BCB wait on Shakib Al Hasan's test results

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is waiting for the test results on Shakib Al Hasan's bowling action before naming their squad for the Champions Trophy 2025.  The participating teams need to announce their squads by January 12. Last year, in September, Shakib was reported for suspect action during a county match for Surrey, after which the ECB suspended him from bowling. As per clause 11.3 of the ICC's regulations for illegal bowling actions, the ICC banned Shakib from bowling in international cricket and by domestic teams in competitions around the world. The all-rounder went through a bowling test at Loughborough University, but the results were negative. Subsequently, Shakib underwent a second bowling test in Chennai, the results of which are still awaited. BCB's chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain called the entire incident 'shocking' and said that BCB is patiently waiting for the results.

"It was very shocking to hear that Shakib couldn't pass the bowling action test (at Loughborough). I will have to find out whether he has tested himself again," Hossain was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

"We have to wait for this information. The board hasn't instructed us fully on Shakib. I think every minute counts. I am sure we can clarify this in a day or two," Hossain added.

However, according to various media reports, Shakib Al Hasan, one of Bangladesh's biggest cricket stars, faces a tough challenge. The all-rounder has failed his second test for a suspect bowling action.

Shakib's bowling action was first reported in September 2024 while playing for Surrey in England.

Since then, he has been under scrutiny, with his bowling now officially deemed illegal by the England and Wales Cricket Board. Adding to his troubles, Shakib has also been dealing with a long-term eye condition and missed all ODI matches in 2024.

Shakib's bowling action came under the scanner during his brief stint with Surrey in September 2024. Umpires noted irregularities and reported him.
Following this, Shakib underwent two independent tests, one at Loughborough University in England and another in Chennai, India. Both tests confirmed that his bowling exceeded the ICC's allowed elbow extension of 15 degrees.

Najmul Hossain Shanto, the Bangladesh captain, and Faruque Ahmed, the BCB chief, decided in favour of Shakib's inclusion if the veteran passes his bowling test.

Shakib hasn't played any form of international cricket since the Test series against India, which Bangladesh lost 0-2. He also missed out on playing his 'farewell' Test against South Africa at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.

Shakib last played any form of cricket in November, representing Bangla Tiger in the T10 League. He is also not a part of the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League.