The absence of Shakib Al Hasan has come as a relief to South Africa as they embark on a two-test series in Bangladesh but stand-in captain Aiden Markram does not expect the challenge to be any easier.

Protests are currently taking place in Dhaka because of Shakib Al Hasan. He has been named in the team's squad for the first Test against the Proteas.

Shakib Al Hasan's farewell plans for cricket are disrupted amid political unrest in Bangladesh. Protests erupted as fans opposed his ban from a Test match, complicated by his political involvement and legal issues.

Shakib Al Hasan, who was named in a murder case after the anti-discrimination protests in Bangladesh, raised concerns over his safety.

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto emphasizes the team's focus on South Africa in the absence of Shakib al Hasan for the upcoming Test series. Bangladesh will also adjust to interim coach Phil Simmons after Chandika Hathurusingha's suspension for alleged misconduct,

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has said Shakib Al Hasan's absence from what should have been his farewell Test was "unfortunate," but urged his team to focus on the task at hand - the first match against South Africa starting on Monday.

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto said his men were focused on the challenge of South Africa rather than their missing all-rounder Shakib al Hasan ahead of Monday's first Test

The two-Test series is the first international cricket fixture in Bangladesh since a student-led revolution toppled the autocratic premier.