Mominul Haque Replaces Banned Shakib Al Hasan As Bangladesh Test Captain

Mominul Haque has replaced banned Shakib Al Hasan as Bangladesh Test captain while Mahmudullah Riyad will lead the side in T20Is against India, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) announced on Tuesday. The BCB also announced the replacement of Shakib Al Hasan, who was banned for two years by the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The announcement comes hours after the International Cricket Council (ICC) banned Shakib Al Hasan for two years (one of those suspended), for failing to report corrupt approaches on numerous occasions. Two years ago, Shakib had received an offer from a bookie, which he did not report to the ICC’s Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU). Responding to the ICC action, Shakib said that he was "extremely sad" by the ICC action but admitted the charges.

"I am extremely sad to have been banned from the game I love, but I completely accept my sanction for not reporting the approaches. ICC ACU is reliant on players to play a central part in fight against corruption&I didn't do my duty in this instance," he said.

Also Read | Shakib Al Hasan Banned For Two Years For Not Reporting Bookie Approach: ICC

This has come a big set back for the Bangladeshi team, which is scheduled to tour India for three T20 Internationals and two Tests, starting November 3. The squad will leave for the neighbouring country on Wednesday and Shakib will not be part of it. Bangladesh will now have to face the formidable Indian side without its biggest player.

Earlier, there were reports that in the absence of Shakib, senior-most player Mushfiqur Rahim might lead the team in Tests. Shakib recently spearheaded a players' strike before calling it off after the BCB assured that their demands, including a pay hike, will be fulfilled.