After his game-winning half-century against the Netherlands in Match 27 of the T20 World Cup 2024 on Thursday, June 13 at Arnos Vale Ground, Kingstown, St. Vincent, Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib al Hasan spoke out about his criticism from former India cricketer Virender Sehwag. Notably, Sehwag claimed that Shakib ought to have retired and questioned his status on the squad in light of his dismal play.
The Bangladesh all-rounder was also admonished by the former India opener with not using his bat with enough responsibility. Nevertheless, following a protracted dry spell, the 37-year-old veteran recovered some form against the Dutch, scoring an incredible 64* (46).
Shakib said after reaching his 50th century that a player’s role is to support his team in whatever way possible rather than to respond to inquiries.
“A player never comes to answer any questions. A player’s job is to bat for the team if he’s a batsman and contributes to the team. If he is a bowler, his job is to bowl well. The wicket is about luck. If he is a fielder, he should save each run and take as many catches as he can. Here, actually, there’s nothing to answer for anyone. I think it is important for a current player how much he can contribute to his team. When he can’t contribute, then naturally there would be discussions and I don’t think it is a bad thing,” said Shakib in the post-match press conference.
Moving forward, the former captain of Bangladesh stated that he has never been concerned with his own performance in his career, instead choosing to concentrate on helping the team achieve its goals. “My performance has never caused me concern. In my professional life, I don’t believe I have ever considered that. If I can help the team, I feel good about myself. As I mentioned, perhaps this is my day, but perhaps in the next game, someone else will have their day,” he continued.
It is noteworthy that Shakib had only scored 69 runs at an average of 11.50 in six innings in T20Is in 2024 prior to reaching his half-century. He has taken six wickets at an average of 30.50 from eight innings this year, even with the ball. The all-rounder’s performance in the current event was therefore closely monitored.
After being put to bat first, Shakib’s undefeated 64 helped Bangladesh to 159/5 in the 20 overs given. The Netherlands lost by 25 runs as a result of their inability to score 134/8 in their 20 overs in reply. The Najmul Hossain Shanto-led team has won two of their first three games, and with this victory, they have a strong chance of making it to the Super 8 stages. To further guarantee their spot in the next round, they will be motivated to win their final match against Nepal.
