All-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been permitted to participate in international and domestic cricket matches from September after the Bangladesh Cricket Board lifted a six-month ban imposed on him.
The ban was imposed on 7 July after Al Hasan had reportedly behaved in an improper manner with Bangladesh coach Chandika Hathurusinghe and was allegedly involved in a fight with a spectator during an ODI against India.
"We've decided to lift his ban from September 15. He will now be available for selection for the Asian Games, Zimbabwe series and the domestic league," NDTV Sport quoted Nazmul Hassan as saying.
However, the decision to ban the all-rounder from participating in any foreign leagues has not been done away with yet and will only end on 31 December.
The decision to lift the six-month ban was taken after cricketing authorities came to the opinion that Al Hasan has mended his ways. In addition to this, the all-rounder had requested for a review of the ban imposed on him for misconduct.
"We've seen some positive things in Shakib's attitude since the ban was imposed. We're also satisfied at his letter that he gave to us.We believe he has realised his mistakes," Hassan reckoned.
Bangladesh, currently touring the West Indies, had suffered a 3-0 loss in the ODI series. In the second match, they were bowled out for 70 runs. In the third game, they conceded a massive 338 runs as West Indies wicket-keeper Denesh Ramdin and Darren Bravo hammered 169 and 124 runs respectively. Al Hasan's dynamic batting and incisive bowling were clearly missed in the series.
As the withdrawal of the ban will come into effect only from 15 September, the all-rounder will miss the two Test series against the West Indies. The last of the two Tests begins on 13 September.
In October and November, Bangladesh will play Zimbabwe in a Test and ODI series. Al Hasan will be hoping to make it back for that series. Bangladesh fans will love to see him back in action against Zimbabwe.
"Nothing can be more painful than staying away from cricket," Al Hasan pointed out.
