WTC points behind Australia's full-strength squad against Bangladesh: Shakib Al Hasan

Former Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan believes Australia's decision to field a full-strength squad against Bangladesh is driven more by the World Test Championship (WTC) than by the opposition itself.

Australia named a star-studded squad for the upcoming two-match Test series, retaining key players including Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon. While current Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto viewed the selection as a sign of Bangladesh's growing stature in Test cricket, Shakib offered a different perspective.

Speaking to Indian media outlet RevSportz, the veteran all-rounder said leading Test nations consistently prioritize fielding their strongest available squads, especially in WTC fixtures.

"Teams like Australia, England, India and South Africa take Test cricket very seriously. Regardless of the opposition or venue, they prefer to play their best available side. So, I'm not surprised Australia has picked a full-strength squad," Shakib said.

He stressed that the WTC points race is a major factor behind Australia's approach.

"Since this is a World Test Championship series, they won't want to drop valuable points. Their players have also had enough rest, so they are in a position to field their strongest XI," he added.

Shakib's assessment suggests Australia's selection reflects not only their respect for Test cricket but also their determination to maximize every point in the WTC standings.

The Bangladesh-Australia Test series begins on August 13 in Darwin. It will mark Bangladesh's first Test tour of Australia in 23 years. Australia fielded a full-strength side during that previous series as well. Shakib, who had not yet made his international debut then, will watch this tour after bringing his own international career to a close.