Shakib Al Hasan shines on County return, takes 4 wickets
After nearly 13 years, Shakib Al Hasan is back in the County Championship. He first played in England’s prestigious domestic league back in 2010.
It was during Bangladesh's tour of Pakistan that it was revealed Shakib would be playing in the County Championship for Surrey.
Following the Test series, the experienced all-rounder flew directly to England and took the field for his new team today. On his return to County cricket after a long hiatus, Shakib made an immediate impact with the ball. He played a pivotal role in wrapping up the opposition's innings, claiming 4 wickets.
Shakib last played in the County Championship nearly 13 years ago. In 2010, he first featured in this historic league, representing Worcestershire.
In his debut season, the Bangladesh all-rounder played 8 matches for the club. He was retained for the following season but only appeared in one match.
After a long gap, Shakib has made his return, and he quickly reminded everyone why he is considered one of the best all-rounders in the world.
Shakib's first day back in County cricket was impressive. With his left-arm spin, he dismantled four Somerset batsmen.
Playing at The Cooper Associates County Ground in Taunton, Shakib bowled the most overs for Surrey on the first day. Out of the 95.5 overs bowled by his team, Shakib alone bowled 33.5. No other Surrey bowler bowled more than 17 overs.
Somerset won the toss and chose to bat, posting a total of 317 before being bowled out. After the dismissal of the final Somerset batsman, play was called off for the day. Shakib's wickets included Tom Abell, Kasey Aldridge, Craig Overton, and Brett Randell. Shakib was brought into the attack in the 11th over and bowled consistently until the 66th over, with just one break of a single over.
Although Shakib bowled brilliantly from the start, he had to wait a long time for his first wicket. After going wicketless in the first session, the experienced spinner claimed his first wicket in his 21st over, clean bowling Tom Abell. He bowled Aldridge for his second, while the third wicket came through a stumping. Shakib trapped Randell lbw for his fourth and final wicket of the innings.