Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has pulled himself out of IPL 2023. He was part of the Kolkata Knight Riders squad, but has sent the franchise a formal application regarding his decision.
According to sources, the Bangladesh player cited international commitment and personal issues as the result of him skipping the tournament, which has just started on March 31.
It will come as a huge blow for Kolkata Knight Riders as Shakib was tipped to play a huge part for them this season. But it is understood the player called KKR management to excuse him for the season.
Sources say Shakib's decision was fuelled by BCB's refusal to release both Shakib and Litton Das for the IPL due to international commitments. Bangladesh are taking part in one-off Test series against Ireland, and BCB informed BCCI that their players will be available from Aprl 8 to May 1 this season.
Shakib and Litton both were bought by KKR in the IPL 2023 auction last year, and the latter is still expected to join the team. Shakib was roped in for his base price INR 1.5 crore, while Litton was bought for his base price INR 50 lakh.
Shakib's absence will be a setback for the Knights, who are already poised to miss their captain Shreyas Iyer for the entirety of the season. New Zealand pacer Lockie Ferguson is also injured and didn't take part in the first match.
KKR lost their first match against Punjab Kings and will play Royal Challengers Bangalore in Kolkata on Thursday (April 6) next.