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DHAKA, Oct 20, 2024 (BSS)-Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto believes 
Mehidy Hasan Miraz would be the good option for the side to fill the void of 
Shakib Al Hasan, who was used to give them a cushion of taking extra bowler 
or batter.

With Shakib being unavailable in the series, Bangladesh had to think about 
life beyond him and Shanto was not fazed by it.

"It's difficult to match at this moment (Shakib's replacement) for a captain. 
But we have to plan that way. We could take an extra batter or extra bowler 
in the team (when Shakib in the team), however, that will not be the case 
anymore," Shanto said as Bangladesh gear up for the two-match Test series 
opening game against South Africa, starting tomorrow (Monday). 

"Whoever bats a seven will have an important role. I don't think there's 
anyone exactly like Shakib bhai at this moment. But Miraz can be a very good 
option."

Miraz's dynamic improvement over the last two years made him a go-to player 
for captain, something which Shanto also took in consideration. 

"I think there's still room for improvement. But I believe Miraz is ready to 
take the role. If we notice Miraz's batting, he's been much better than 
before. He is taking us to a good position on maximum days. So I hope Miraz 
can take that role within a few years."

Moreover Shanto hinted that the Mirpur wicket will assist the spinners like 
it did in the past. And so in this case, Miraz's role will be important along 
with left-arm spinner Tajiul Islam. Miraz also had good track record in 
Mirpur pitch.

"We will play to win. The wicket will be like usual Mirpur wicket. I can't 
tell more than this. Everyone has idea of how Mirpur wicket behaves," he 
said.

Bangladesh also formed a spin-heavy side with left-arm spinner Hasan Murad 
replacing Shakib Al Hasan in the side.

"We have four quality spinners. If you see Hasan Murad's domestic record, 
it's outstanding. The way he bowled in first class cricket in last few years, 
on all kinds of wicket, I think it's really well. I think he deserves the 
selection," Shanto said of Murad.

"But Nayeem couldn't play despite doing well because of team combination. 
Whatever combination we go for, three or four spinners, I think everyone is 
capable. Even though Hasan Murad is new, he has the experience in first class 
cricket. I hope everyone will give their best."

At the same time, Shanto urged his batters to bat sensibly if the wicket 
assists the spinners as the South Africa are also bolstered by some good 
spinners.

"Spinners will have an extra role here, as always. As we have seen in the 
past. Our spinners will bowl the way they have bowled here before. I will 
want the process to be right. I don't want anything extra from the spinners. 
It's a matter of process how we can take 20 wickets. If we can keep our 
process right, it's possible to do well," he said. 

"If there is spin on the pitch, the side shots - sweep, reverse sweep - we 
have to understand which shot is important on this wicket. I don't have any 
problem if the batters get out playing right shots for the pitch. The players 
have prepared themselves well and I hope they will play good cricket."