Barishal start practice for BPL sans Shakib

DHAKA-With the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) approaching fast, the six teams had already started training at the academy

ground of the Mirpur Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.

   All of the teams started their practice with their local players since
their star foreigners are yet to land in Dhaka. But while all of the local
players joined their respective side, the picture was different in Frotune
Barishal camp as their captain Shakib Al Hasan was not seen in the first
day's practice.

   According to the team sources, Shakib will join the practice from Monday.
Even though Shakib did not come in the first practice of the team, Barishal
coach Mahmud was not fazed by this as he believes Shakib is capable enough to
make a good bond with the team as quicker as it is possible.

   According to him, if a cricketer like Shakib is in the team, it is easy to
work with that team.

   "It's always easy to work for a team that has Shakib Al Hasan," Mahmud
said in a video message. "Shakib and I worked for Dhaka (Dhaka Dynamites) for
four years. So my chemistry with Shakib is always good. '

   Mahmud is also satisfied with the balance of his team.

   "In fact, the T20 format is a game that will be won by those who can play
well on a given day. But I am hopeful about our chance."

   It is to be noted that Barisal has practiced only with local cricketers
today. Their foreign cricketers will come from Monday. Caribbean all-rounder
Dwayne Bravo and England's Jack Lintott will arrive tomorrow (Monday).

   West Indies fast bowler Alzzari Joseph will arrive on Wednesday (January
19), another Caribbean Chris Gayle on Saturday (January 22) and Afghan
offspinner Mujib Ur Rahman will arrive on the night of January 26. BSS