IPL nuggets: Shakib al Hasan opts out of KKR squad

KKR is facing a mini-crisis as they are losing players, one after the other.

In a latest blow, Shakib Al Hasan, the captain of Bangladesh’s cricket team, has informed his IPL franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), that he will not be available for the entire ongoing season due to international commitments and personal reasons.

As a result, KKR is now seeking a replacement for the all-rounder.

Shakib had already missed the season-opener for KKR against Punjab Kings last weekend, along with wicketkeeper-batter Litton Das, who was picked up by the franchise in the auction last December at his base price of Rs 50 lakh.

Initially, it was believed that Shakib would be available for selection after the T20I series against Ireland at home, which ended on March 31.

However, being a part of the Test side for the one-off game against Ireland (April 4-8) meant that the star Bangladeshi player would have joined the KKR squad by April 9 at the latest.

Shakib’s stint with KKR would have been for just three weeks, between April 9 to May 1.

Bangladesh is also set for an away tour of Ireland to take part in a three-match ODI series at Chelmsford on May 9, 12, and 14.

There is, however, no update or clarity on the availability of Das’ participation in the IPL.

KKR, who are already without their regular captain Shreyas Iyer this IPL, have David Wiese, Lockie Ferguson, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, and Tim Southee as the other overseas players.

The team, which lost their opening clash against Punjab Kings by seven runs via the DLS method in an away game in Mohali, will face a formidable challenge against Royal Challengers Bangalore at their home ground, Eden Gardens, on April 6.

Shakib’s absence is a significant setback for KKR as he was expected to play a vital role in the team’s campaign this year.

The franchise has yet to announce a replacement for the all-rounder.

This is not the first time that Shakib has pulled out of the IPL. In 2018, he missed the tournament after being banned by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for failing to report corrupt approaches.

He was subsequently released by the Sunrisers Hyderabad and had to wait until 2021 to make his IPL comeback with KKR.

Shakib is one of Bangladesh’s most successful cricketers, having scored over 13,000 runs and taken more than 600 wickets across all formats of the game.

He has also played a crucial role in KKR’s two IPL title wins in 2012 and 2014.

KKR is currently placed at the bottom of the points table after one match, and they will need to quickly regroup and find their form to stay in contention for the playoffs.