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Shakib Al Hasan Suggests Resting World Cup-Bound Players for New Zealand ODIs

image-lmczwf83Shakib Al Hasan feels Bangladesh should rest their ODI World Cup-bound players [Twitter]

Bangladesh's ODI skipper, Shakib Al Hasan, has recommended that the national team rest key players during their home series against New Zealand. The three-match ODI series is scheduled to commence on September 21 and conclude on September 26 in Dhaka.

Subsequently, both teams are slated to embark on their World Cup journey in India the very next day. As part of their preparations, both New Zealand and Bangladesh will engage in two warm-up matches each on September 29 and October 2, respectively.

Shakib highlighted the demanding travel schedule as one of the primary reasons behind this recommendation. Recognizing the strain that extended travel can exert on players, Shakib emphasized the need for a brief respite, especially for those confirmed for the World Cup.

Shakib Al Hasan Urges Bangladesh to Prioritize Player Well-being Ahead of World Cup 2023

Shakib's proposal for player rest stems from the extensive travel involved in the upcoming World Cup tournament in India. Understanding the challenges ahead, he believes that ensuring player fitness is paramount to Bangladesh's chances in the competition.

"We cannot afford injuries in that big tournament which involves practice matches and lots of travel. We don't have a lot of bench strength. It is very important for us that players are fit and healthy for the World Cup. I want all four of our fast bowlers to remain fit, now that Ebadot [Hossain] is out." 

In addition to preserving player fitness, Shakib sees the New Zealand series as an opportunity to assess the depth of their squad. He expressed

"We will try a few things in the three ODIs against New Zealand," Shakib said. "If we can get one or two players from there who can fit into the team [later], it will be better for the team. Everyone has a chance [to play]. I personally believe that those who played in the Asia Cup could be rested from the New Zealand series, especially those who are confirmed for the World Cup."

Meanwhile, New Zealand has unveiled its 15-player squad for the upcoming ODI series against Bangladesh. With regular ODI captain Kane Williamson still in recovery from knee surgery, the reins will be taken up by the seamer Tim Southee. Vice-captain Tom Latham, along with other key players, will also sit out the series, availing themselves of valuable rest before the World Cup and Test tour to Bangladesh.

Bangladesh currently is a part of the ongoing Asia cup, where they have lost their Super four matches against Sri Lanka and Pakistan. They will next play India at Colombo on Friday (September 15).