"Was an easy decision" - Surrey's director on signing Shakib for one County game

Surrey are eyeing their third County Championship title and are 24 points ahead of second-placed Somerset with three games remaining in the ongoing season. The two teams are set to collide in an all-important encounter in Taunton, starting September 9 (Monday), and Surrey will have the services of Bangladesh’s star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan. 

Surrey are without Will Jacks, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Smith, Sam Curran, Reece Topley and Jamie Overton for this encounter. The aforementioned players are either part of the England squad for the ongoing third Test against Sri Lanka or are set to feature in the T20I series against Australia, starting September 11. 

Surrey's director of cricket Alec Stewart said it was “an easy decision” to sign Shakib on a one-match deal. “We've been aware for a period of time that this fixture was likely to be one where we would have a significant number of players away on England duty and, in particular, missing two of our spinning all-rounders (Jacks and Lawrence)," said Stewart.

“When the opportunity to bring a player of the quality of Shakib to the club came along, it was an easy decision to make. Shakib brings a wealth of experience and outstanding skill with bat and ball and we look forward to seeing what he can do for Surrey."

Shakib replaces Sai Sudharsan, who is back in India for the ongoing Duleep Trophy. Bangladesh are scheduled to play two Tests against India, starting on September 19, and this County game will help Shakib be match-ready for the big series.

"Surrey are one of the most prestigious clubs in the world and I am pleased to get the chance to represent the club. I'm coming here to have an impact and help the team achieve their goals for the season,” said Shakib.

Surrey have also managed to convince Tom Curran to play this game. The fast-bowling all-rounder hasn’t played red-ball cricket for almost two years now but has been named in the 15-man squad for the Somerset game. 

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