Shakib could miss Sri Lanka Tests

Bangladesh allrounder Shakib Al Hasan could miss the two Tests against Sri Lanka next month after scans revealed that he is suffering from exertional compartment syndrome on his shin bone, a condition that can be caused by frequent running, which leads to pain and swelling.

One of the methods to treat this condition is "controlled participation in sports", according to the Bangladesh board physician Debashish Chowdhury, who suggested Shakib could be playing only the limited-overs matches in Sri Lanka.

"The CT and bone scan didn't reveal any major damages. His problems can be managed by physiotherapy, physical exercise and controlled participation in sports," Chowdhury said. "Whether he will play Tests will depend on Shakib and the selectors."

Shakib had missed the limited-overs leg of the home series against West Indies late last year and was given six weeks rest. He has played six BPL matches for Dhaka Gladiators, missing two due to a hamstring strain.

A decision on Shakib's participation in the Test series will be taken at a meeting of BCB's cricket operations committee. Chief selector Akram Khan said he would like to see Shakib be ready for the Test series in Zimbabwe in April rather than next month. "If required, we would let him be fit for the Zimbabwe Tests in April, because we didn't do well there in 2011. We want to take our best side for that series."

Bangladesh will play two Tests in Sri Lanka in March, as well as three ODIs and a Twenty20. According to the BCB, Bangladesh will travel to Zimbabwe for a full series in April, though the number of Tests has not been announced.