Taskin considering retirement from red ball cricket?

Bangladesh's pace sensation Taskin Ahmed is reportedly considering bidding adieu to Test cricket, prioritising his recovery from a persistent shoulder injury and redirecting his focus towards white-ball cricket formats.

Taskin, 27, has communicated his intentions to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) through a formal letter, requesting consideration for limited-overs cricket exclusively, citing his belief in his ability to contribute more effectively in that arena while facilitating his injury rehabilitation process.

Confirming the development, a senior BCB official disclosed that Taskin's request is under review. Jalal Yunus, the chairman of BCB's cricket operations, acknowledged the receipt of Taskin's letter and indicated that discussions with the player would ensue after the conclusion of the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).

"Taskin has expressed his desire not to engage in longer-format cricket. Once the BPL concludes, we will engage in discussions with him," Yunus stated, emphasising the need for input from the head coach, Chandika Hathurusingha, before reaching a decision.

Taskin's injury woes stem from a shoulder tear sustained during the World Cup, which hindered his participation in several matches during the tournament. Despite rehabilitation efforts, including a stint in the ongoing BPL representing Durdanto Dhaka, Taskin acknowledges that he is yet to reclaim his peak form.

"I was in rehab after the World Cup. Thanks to the Almighty, my rhythm is getting better than before, but I am still not at my best rhythm," Taskin lamented following a recent match against Sylhet Strikers.

The 27-year-old pacer is apprehensive about surgical intervention due to the prolonged recovery period, which would entail a hiatus from cricket exceeding a year. Consequently, he is exploring alternative avenues to manage his injury while striving to regain optimal fitness.

The development is identical to Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman, who also sought exemption from Test cricket to focus on white-ball formats owing to injury concerns. 

While Rahman was granted permission to participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Taskin's requests for similar concessions have been met with reservations from the BCB.

Despite interest from IPL franchises, Taskin's aspirations of featuring in the lucrative league have been thwarted by BCB's reluctance to jeopardise his fitness ahead of crucial international fixtures, including the ICC T20 World Cup.

The BCB, in consultation with medical professionals, must now determine the best course of action, balancing Taskin's aspirations with the imperative of safeguarding his long-term well-being.