Virat Kohli gifts his bat to Bangladesh's Shakib Al Hasan
What's the story
Star Indian batter Virat Kohli has gifted his bat to Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan. This sweet gesture came after the 2nd Test match in Kanpur, celebrating Shakib's remarkable Test career. Shakib is gearing up for what could be his last series on home turf against South Africa. If he doesn't get that opportunity, the recently-concluded series against India will be his farewell from Test cricket. Notably, India routed Bangladesh 2-0 after winning the Kanpur Test.
Retirement plans
Shakib's retirement plans and safety concerns
Shakib is gearing up for the South Africa Test series at home but also pointed out the ongoing political issues in Bangladesh. He has already informed the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) about his potential retirement. Shakib is hoping to play his last Test in Mirpur if he gets the chance, and he has been in talks with the board about it.
Twitter Post
Kohli's heartfelt gesture toward Shakib
Virat Kohli presents a Bat to Shakib Al Hasan 😍💞#ViratKohli #ShakibAlHasan pic.twitter.com/oef8f6k4pA
— bdcrictime.com (@BDCricTime) October 1, 2024
Legal issues
Shakib's legal troubles and BCB's assurance
Shakib, who became a parliament member in January, was named in a murder case in Dhaka last month. However, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) official Shahriar Nafees has assured that Shakib won't be "harassed unfairly" upon his return to Bangladesh. This assurance comes after the Awami League government's fall with which he was associated.
Match summary
India's victory over Bangladesh in Kanpur Test
Team India beat Bangladesh by seven wickets in the 2nd and final Test in Kanpur, clinching the series 2-0. It was truly a remarkable effort from the hosts as they were racing against time after Day 2 and 3 got entirely washed out. They accomplished the 95-run target to win the game. Yashasvi Jaiswal shone with two fifties in the match.