Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has stepped out of the New Zealand tour citing family reasons, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) said on Monday.
BCB president Nazmul Hassan confirmed that Shakib was granted a leave and will miss out on two Tests against the Kiwis, which is part of ICC`s Test Championship, in January next year.

"We have accepted his request. We have been saying for a long time that we have no objection if a player wants to take a break or rest, but it has to be informed officially. The thing is, we want to be informed about such a decision in advance as it is difficult for us if it is informed suddenly. From January, if anyone wants a break, he has to inform us in advance so that we can prepare alternatives," said BCB president Hassan, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.