Cricket

Shakib Al Hasan available to play for South Africa tour

Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan said he would be available to play in the tour of South Africa this month

Sentinel Digital Desk

DHAKA: Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan said he would be available to play in the tour of South Africa this month, days after the country's cricket board (BCB) announced he was being rested for the series.

On Wednesday, the BCB said Shakib would not be involved in international or domestic cricket until April 30 after he put in a request to be rested.

Bangladesh plays South Africa in three one-day internationals from Friday and a two-Test series that begins on March 31.

"I spoke to (BCB president Nazmul Hassan) for the last two days, when we planned the entire year. I am available for all three formats," Shakib told a news conference on Saturday.

"The board will decide when to give me rest, that includes the South Africa series. I am available for the series."

BCB chief Hassan, who was also present at the conference, said Shakib's inclusion in the squad did not mean he would play every match. IANS

Also watch: