Mohammed Hafeez. (Photo source: X(Twitter)
Before the T20 World Cup 2024, especially following Bangladesh’s loss in the preparatory series against co-hosts USA, prospects for a successful campaign appeared as bleak as a stormy winter night. Even the most optimistic supporters viewed advancing to the Super 8s as a distant possibility. However, since the commencement of the tournament, Bangladesh’s group-stage performances have left everyone astonished and many in awe, including ex-Pakistani skipper, Mohammad Hafeez.
Speaking on PTV Sports’ show, Game On Hai, Hafeez expressed that not only him, but the entire cricketing fraternity believed Bangladesh could qualify and leave a lasting impact. He noted that although they had historically underperformed in major ICC events, this time, especially after the humbling bilateral series loss to the USA Bangladesh exhibited the temperament and physical expression throughout the group stage. According to the 43-year-old, their on-field prowess and the appropriate demeanour with which they approached the sport were commendable.
We all know that they can do that [qualify for the Super 8s]. If you look back at their journey, they’ve always underperformed. But this time, after the series with the US where they were defeated, they came back stronger, showing the right body language and character towards the game of cricket,” stated Hafeez, speaking on PTV Sports’ show, Game On Hai.
The Professor also remarked that he was particularly impressed by Bangladesh’s resilience in their closely contested match against South Africa in New York. Despite narrowly losing by just four runs in a game where they led for the majority, he found their tenacity to be commendable. He expressed his expectation for Bangladesh to perform well and, with fellow Asian teams Pakistan and Sri Lanka already eliminated from the competition, mentioned he would be personally delighted to see Bangladesh advance to the semi-finals.
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“That game gave them great confidence going into the competition. I expect Bangladesh to do well. With the giants of Asia, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, eliminated from the competition, I’d personally like to see them do well and move into the semifinals,” added Hafeez.