Surrey’s bid for a third consecutive County Championship title has been bolstered by the arrival of Bangladesh star Shakib Al Hasan on a one-match deal, as the club faces Somerset at Taunton this week. With a crucial fixture ahead and several key players away on England duty, including spin-bowling all-rounders Will Jacks and Dan Lawrence, the addition of Shakib provides a significant boost. This move comes as Surrey, led by director of cricket Alec Stewart, seeks to maintain their lead at the top of the table. Meanwhile, Tom Curran returns to first-class cricket and Lancashire secures Trinidadian seamer Anderson Phillip in a bid to stave off relegation.
Shakib Al Hasan Joins Surrey for Crucial Championship Fixture
Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh’s star allrounder, has been signed by Surrey on a one-match deal for their pivotal County Championship match against Somerset. Alec Stewart, Surrey’s director of cricket, described the decision as “easy” given Shakib’s quality and the team’s player shortages due to England duties. With eight players, including spin-bowling allrounders Will Jacks and Dan Lawrence, unavailable, Stewart saw Shakib as an ideal replacement. He highlighted Shakib’s extensive experience and skill, expecting the player to make a significant impact.
Shakib’s signing follows the departure of Sai Sudharsan, who returned to India for the Duleep Trophy. This fixture also provides Shakib an opportunity to sharpen his skills before Bangladesh’s Test series in India. In response, Shakib expressed his excitement at joining Surrey, emphasizing his desire to contribute to the team’s success during this critical phase of the season. His arrival strengthens Surrey’s squad as they aim to maintain their lead at the top of the Championship.
Tom Curran Returns, Somerset Prepares with New Signings
In addition to Shakib, Surrey has brought back Tom Curran for red-ball cricket after a two-year hiatus. Curran had stepped away from first-class cricket in February 2023, citing physical and mental health concerns, but agreed to return for this important match. With several key players, including Ollie Pope and Sam Curran, on national duty, Tom Curran’s inclusion adds experience and depth to Surrey’s squad as they chase their third consecutive Championship title.
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Somerset, meanwhile, have signed New Zealand seamer Brett Randell on a short-term deal to bolster their bowling attack. As the competition heats up with only a few matches left, both teams are reinforcing their squads to cope with player absences and ensure a strong finish to the season.
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