Shakib Al hasan. (Photo Source:Steve Bell – ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
Bangladesh cricket team have dealt with a lot of criticism after their recent failures in the global tournaments. They failed to qualify for the playoffs of the T20 World Cup in 2021 and 2022 and finished at number eight in the ODI World Cup 2023. However, ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup, slated to begin on June 1, skipper Shakib Al Hasan is optimistic as he expects the team to do well in the familiar conditions of West Indies and USA.
The veteran all-rounder mentioned that the team has been doing well in T20I cricket in the recent past and is in rhythm. In the absence of Shakib, Bangladesh have drawn the T20I series in New Zealand and the Magura-born cricketer is expecting the team to do well in the upcoming mega tournament.
“The tournament will take place in the US and the West Indies. The condition will suit our style of cricket. So, we have a good chance. We have been playing really well in T20s in the last one year. The team is well balanced, it’s also in good rhythm. Everyone’s playing well. The team played well in New Zealand as well. Of course, we have a lot of expectations,” Shakib was quoted as saying by The Daily Star.
Meanwhile, Shakib has also won the Magura seat in the general election of Bangladesh. He joined Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League Party and started campaigning soon after the conclusion of the ODI World Cup. Now that the election procedure is over, Shakib has started his training to regain fitness as he is set to make his return in the upcoming Bangladesh Premier League, which is set to commence on January 19.
The star all-rounder will be representing Rangpur Riders in the competition. Playing for Barishal in the last edition, Shakib scored 375 runs with the bat and has also picked up 10 wickets at an economy of 6.31.