Published: Oct 24, 2018, 02:58 PM (IST)
Edited: Oct 24, 2018, 02:58 PM (IST)
Bangladesh’s veteran allrounder Shakib Al Hasan, who has been out of action since his premature end to the 2018 Asia Cup following a fracture on his left little finger, said that he was not forced into playing the tournament in Dubai.
Reportedly, Shakib wanted his finger to be operated as soon as he returns from the West Indies, but the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) insisted that he plays in the Asia Cup.
“I was never forced to take part in the Asia Cup by the board,” Shakib was quoted as saying in the Prothom Alo on Wednesday.
“I never said anything like it nor the board president insisted anything as such, so don’t know why there is so much controversy regarding it.”
Shakib had returned from Australia on October 14 after consulting physicians about his injury. Rumours were rife that Shakib aggravated the injury after he was forced to play in the Asia Cup.
“I am clearing this for once, BCB president said that if you feel you can play than play,” Shakib said.
“Asia Cup is the biggest tournament after World Cup and Champions Trophy, so naturally I wanted to participate. I took the decision after talking with the physio and the infection was sustained unexpectedly. I am not sure why I am always dragged into controversy.”
