Dhaka, Dec 4 (TIWN) All-rounder Shakib Al Hasan was on Saturday included in Bangladesh's 18-member squad for the two-match Test series in New Zealand, despite the uncertainty around his availability for the tour.

"He hasn't informed us officially. He told us unofficially," Hassan said. "We told him to inform us officially. He has to give a reason. Shakib contributes with either bat or ball. He strengthens the team combination. There's no substitute for Shakib."  Bangladesh have also included the left-arm fast bowler Shoriful Islam, while dropping Nayeem Hasan and Rejaur Rahman Raja, who are part of the 19-member squad involved in the ongoing second Test against Pakistan.  The selectors have picked an 18-member squad for New Zealand that includes six fast bowlers, three spinners and three openers.  Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Shadman Islam are the first choice openers, and the squad also includes the T20 specialist Mohammad Naim, who has played only six first-class matches in his career.