Can't expect Soumya to fill Shakib's shoes - Hathurusingha

Bangladesh head coach Chandika Hathurusingha expressed his concerns about replacing Shakib al Hasan in the playing XI as they prepare for the second game of the three-match series against New Zealand on December 20 in Nelson. New Zealand leads the series 1-0, having won the opener by 44 runs in a rain-curtailed match. Hathurusingha emphasized the difficulty of finding a suitable replacement for Shakib, who missed the series due to a finger injury sustained during the World Cup.

Stand-in skipper Najmul Hossain believes that Soumya Sarkar will play a crucial role in filling the void left by Shakib. Echoing this sentiment, Hathurusingha acknowledged that although Soumya cannot completely replicate what Shakib has been doing for the team, they expect him to contribute as an all-rounder. He emphasized that Soumya's inclusion is crucial in finding the right combination for the team as they have become accustomed to having Shakib in the lineup for the past 15 years.

Despite Soumya's recent struggles with both bat and ball, Hathurusingha indicated that they still consider him an important player. Soumya failed to score runs in the last five ODIs, and also dropped two catches in the opening game. However, Hathurusingha mentioned that he has seen Soumya perform well domestically and expressed the team's need for someone who can both bowl and bat in the absence of Shakib.

Hathurusingha also revealed that leg-spinner Rishad Hossain, who performed impressively in a practice game against New Zealand XI, is expected to be included in the playing XI soon. He acknowledged that the team's record in New Zealand has been challenging and they have struggled with early wicket losses. With the intention of introducing a leg spinner into the lineup, Rishad is being considered as their primary option.

Regarding the upcoming game in Nelson, Hathurusingha anticipates a high-scoring encounter, citing the good condition of the wicket and the fast outfield. However, due to rain interruptions in the series opener, the team hasn't had an opportunity to assess how the wicket will behave. They will have to wait until the match day to make a final decision based on the input from the groundsman.