Shakib's place in the team questioned after Chennai loss

Bangladesh suffered a significant defeat in Chennai, getting bowled out for 234 runs while chasing a massive target of 515 set by India, resulting in a 280-run victory for the hosts. The struggles of Shakib Al Hasan with the bat continue, as he has not scored well since the recent series against Pakistan. Despite taking nine wickets during his time in the English county circuit, he has remained ineffective with the bat. This has led to questions about whether it’s time to drop Shakib from the playing XI.

Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto expressed surprise at the notion of benching Shakib. Speaking to the media, he reiterated his belief in Shakib’s efforts to return to form.

Shakib's last half-century in Test cricket came in April of last year against Ireland in Mirpur. Since then, he has not scored a fifty in his last seven innings. In the first innings of the Chennai Test, he managed only 32 runs off 64 balls, and in the second innings, he scored 25 runs off 56 balls, hitting three fours.

Starting the fourth day with 158 runs for the loss of four wickets, Bangladesh needed just 77 more runs to avoid an innings defeat. However, they were all out before the end of the morning session, handing India a comfortable victory.

During the post-match press conference, Shanto was asked if Shakib would be dropped from the team. He responded, "That’s a very bold question! Mashallah! As a captain, I look at how hard each player is working and whether they are doing what is necessary to make a comeback. I pay attention to the intent each player shows towards the team. I try to assess how prepared they are to contribute to the team, and whether they are giving their all."