Shakib Al Hasan named in Bangladesh squad for 1st match of his farewell Test series vs South Africa at home

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Shakib Al Hasan has been named in the Bangladesh squad for the first Test against South Africa in Dhaka. During Bangladesh's tour of India, the superstar all-rounder had announced that he would retire from Test cricket after the two-match Test series against South Africa.

There was uncertainty over his participation in the home Test series against South Africa as the 37-year-old was concerned about his security in Bangladesh which recently saw change in regime following violent protests. Shakib was a Member of Parliament (MP) in the ousted Awami League-led government.

The southpaw recently apologised for his silence during the protests which led to hundreds of deaths. It was the first time Shakib acknowledged the movement which was against the former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government.

"Firstly, I would like to pay my respects to all the students who sacrificed their lives, led the anti-discrimination movement, and were martyred or injured during the people's uprising," Shakib wrote on his Facebook page recently.

"I extend my deepest respect and condolences to them and their families. While no sacrifice can compensate for the loss of a loved one, nothing can fill the void of losing a child or a brother, to those of you who were hurt by my silence during this critical period, I respect your feelings and sincerely apologise. If I were in your place, I too might have been upset.

"I want to say goodbye with all of you around. At the moment of farewell, I want to shake hands with those whose applause compelled me to play better. I want to meet the eyes of those who cheered in joy when I played well and whose eyes welled up with tears when I did not," he added.

Shakib had earlier announced that the second Test against India in Kanpur could be his last in case he does not get to play against South Africa in Bangladesh. However, the path to play in his farewell Test series is clear now.

All the players on the India tour except pacer Khaled Ahmed have retained their spots. Khaled played in the second Test and leaked 43 runs in four overs in the only innings he bowled.

The first Test between Bangladesh and South Africa will be held at the Shere Bangla Stadium in Bangladesh from October 21. The second Test will be played in Chattogram from October 29.

Bangladesh have also appointed a new coach ahead of the series. Phil Simmons has replaced Chandika Hathurusingha, who was reportedly suspended and sacked for slapping a player during last year's ODI World Cup.

Bangladesh squad for 1st Test vs South Africa: Najmul Hossain Shanto (capt), Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Das, Jaker Ali, Mehidy Hasan, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Nahid Rana