Kolkata, April 5 (IANS) Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan says his absence for 10 of the 14 league matches of the IPL due to national commitments would not affect the Kolkata Knight Riders, who have a strong bench strength and depth.
Shakib would leave for home after the first two games of the KKR (April 8 and 11) for the series against Pakistan who are slated to play three One Day Internationals, two Test matches and one Twenty20 International in Bangladesh from April 17 to May 10.
He would, however, return to India for the last two league games of the IPL franchisee (May 14 and 16).
"I don't think my absence will be a problem for my side. We have a very strong bench strength and depth. We have a balanced side," said Shakib.
"I'll possibly play the last two league matches. But of course, my aim is to contribute like last season."A
Shakib said the Knights would strive to win all their home matches, as the Eden wicket affords help for the quality spinners in the side.
"On our home ground, we some help for spinners. And we have got a spin-oriented attack. If we can win all our home games, then it will be easy for us to qualify for the play-offs."
However, he hastened to add that the team's two leading pacers Morne Morkel and Umesh Yadav would also play a crucial role.
"They have done very well in the World Cup. They will also play a vital role."
With the team boasting of seven spinners - Shakib, Sunil Narine, John Botha, Brad Hogg, Piyush Chawla, A.K.C. Cariappa and Kuldeep Yadav, Shakib said there was a healthy competition among them to get into the first eleven.
"The team is benefited when everybody gives their best on the field."