Bangladesh’s star all-rounder, Shakib Al Hasan, has expressed his intention to engage in discussions with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) regarding his role as captain, especially as the team navigates a transitional phase. After Tamim Iqbal took a brief hiatus from the sport, Shakib stepped up to lead the team during significant tournaments like the 2023 Asia Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Unfortunately, a recent injury he sustained during the ODI World Cup in India sidelined him, causing him to miss a pivotal series against New Zealand. During Shakib’s absence, Najmul Hossain Shanto showcased commendable leadership, guiding Bangladesh to their maiden white-ball victories in New Zealand. Head coach Chandika Hathurusingha has openly endorsed Shanto as a credible contender for the captaincy role.
As Bangladesh approaches crucial tournaments like the 2024 T20 World Cup and an upcoming tour of India, there’s an evident need to clarify the team’s leadership structure for the long term. Interestingly, beyond the cricketing arena, Shakib has broadened his horizons by securing a parliamentary seat in Bangladesh, winning by a significant margin in the general elections.
Shedding light on the team’s aspirations, Shakib touched upon Bangladesh’s objectives for the 2024 T20 World Cup. Reflecting on their previous performance in Australia, where they clinched two victories but finished below the Netherlands, the team aims for a more robust showing this time around.
The upcoming tournaments and discussions with the BCB are pivotal moments for Bangladesh cricket, with leadership decisions and performance expectations taking centre stage.
Shakib exclusively said: “No discussion on it (national team captaincy) so far but I will talk with the board and there will be a discussion about it. Later a decision will be taken in this regard by everyone that will be best for the team.”
“Expectations are high every time and it will be the same this time too since we have been playing very well for the last one year in T20 editions. The team is balanced now and everyone is playing well and we played well in New Zealand and so expectations will be high. It will be played in the United States and West Indies where our cricket perhaps will be more suitable, so we will have a chance there.”
Following his absence from the New Zealand series, Shakib Al Hasan is poised to make a comeback in the 2024 Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). He is scheduled to play for the Rangpur Riders when the tournament kicks off on January 19.
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