Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has said Shakib Al Hasan's absence from what should have been his farewell Test was "unfortunate," but urged his team to focus on the task at hand - the first match against South Africa starting on Monday.

The absence of Shakib Al Hasan has come as a relief to South Africa as they embark on a two-test series in Bangladesh but stand-in captain Aiden Markram does not expect the challenge to be any easier.

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto emphasizes the team's focus on South Africa in the absence of Shakib al Hasan for the upcoming Test series. Bangladesh will also adjust to interim coach Phil Simmons after Chandika Hathurusingha's suspension for alleged misconduct,

Supporters of Bangladesh cricket star Shakib Al Hasan were attacked by unidentified individuals and law enforcement in Dhaka while peacefully demandin

Before the opening Test against South Africa, a fervent group of Shakib Al Hasan supporters assembled outside the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium ahead of the match, which starts from Monday.

Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan said he is almost certain he will not return home for a farewell test against South Africa next week following public anger over his silence during deadly protests in the country.