Shakib Al Hasan has opened up on the criticism placed on him by former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag after his match-winning half-century during the T20 World Cup 2024 match against Netherlands on June 13 at Arnos Vale Ground.
Shakib’s unbeaten 64 runs helped the side in the scorecard and has been the base for Bangladesh’s victory at St Vincent. After the side’s defeat against South Africa in the ongoing tournament, Virender Sehwag has questioned Shakib’s place in the team due to his form and also suggested that he should’ve retired. He also accused the 37-year-old all-rounder did not taking enough responsibility with the bat.
“During the last World Cup, I thought he should no longer be picked for the T20 format. The time for retirement came a long time ago. You are such a senior player, you were the captain of this team. You should actually be ashamed of your recent numbers. You should come forward and announce yourself that enough is enough, I’m retiring from this format,” said Sehwag.
But Shakib’s magnificent fifty against Dutch has proved his presence in the team. Shakib stated that a player is supposed to answer every criticism but to contribute to the team in every possible way.
While speaking in the post-conference match, “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.
“I have never been worried about my performance. I don’t think that I ever had that thought in my career. I feel good If I can contribute to the team. As I said, maybe today is my day, but maybe someone else’s day will come in the next match,” he added.
Coming to the tournament, Bangladesh has two victories out of three matches they played so far and has a high chance of qualifying for the Super 8s. With few matches remaining in Group D, they can qualify for the next round with a win over Nepal.
Bangladesh and Nepal will clash against each other in the 37th match of the tournament on June 17 at Arnos Vale Ground, Bridgetown, St Vincent.
