A group of fans calling for Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan to play in a farewell test against South Africa were attacked by rival protesters wielding sticks and bamboo on Sunday, police said.

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.

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto said his men were focused on the challenge of South Africa rather than their missing

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,