Rangpur Riders’ Shakib Al Hasan is set to miss the remaining first-phase matches of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2024 in Dhaka as he departs for Singapore on Sunday, January 21, for an eye check-up.
A top official of the Riders confirmed the development to Cricbuzz, adding that they are hopeful of his return for the Sylhet leg of the tournament, subject to his eye status.
“He (Shakib) is leaving for Sylhet today, and we are expecting him to be available during the Sylhet phase if he recovers from his eye problem. Let’s hope for the best, but if that is not the case, we have to play with our available resources,” said Ishtiaque Sadeque, CEO of the Riders.
In their opening game against Fortune Barisal, Shakib scored just two runs before being bowled by Khaled Ahmed. However, he showcased his bowling prowess by claiming 2 wickets for 16 runs in four overs.
Riders’ captain Nurul Hasan revealed to the press that Shakib has been struggling with his eyesight for some time. “He (Shakib) has been struggling with an eyesight problem for some time now. I think he has been in touch with the doctors regularly. The doctors only could say in what stage the problem is now,” said Nurul.
Cricbuzz had previously reported Shakib’s eye issue during the ICC World Cup. Recently, he traveled to London for a check-up before returning to Dhaka on January 18.
Riders are scheduled to play against the Sylhet Strikers at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka on January 23. They are also slated to face the Khulna Tigers in the opening game of the Sylhet phase at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on January 26.
The absence of Shakib Al Hasan will be felt by the Rangpur Riders, but they will look to adapt and perform well in his absence as they continue their campaign in the BPL 2024.
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