Sabbir Rahman’s arrival in international cricket has added extra energy to the Bangladesh set-up as the dashing middle-order batsman possesses the ability to strike big and play the role of a finisher.
In the Tigers’ last competitive match – the third and final ODI against India – the 23-year old scored a fine 43 off 38 balls. Despite chasing a huge target of 318, the right-hander batted positively right till the final moments when Bangladesh were eventually bundled out for 240 in 47 overs.
In spite of being the opponent, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, considered a great finisher in world cricket, was so impressed by Sabbir that he gave the youngster some suggestions, which, according to him, is one of his biggest achievements yet.
“Talking with him (Dhoni) is one of the biggest achievements of my career. He told me to continue how I am playing at the moment. He also told me that I should finish the game according to my plan, continue with the same rhythm which I am playing at the moment and play fearless cricket,” Sabbir told the media at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium yesterday.
The Tigers’ next assignment is against South Africa, who arrive today for two Tests, two Twenty20 internationals and three ODIs. Sabbir informed that the team management is yet to chalk out any game-plan against the Proteas. The Rajshahi cricketer however, said they are currently working on their upper-level strokes in order to prepare themselves before facing the formidable South African fast bowlers.
“Actually, we are yet to receive any suggestion or game-plan for the upcoming series against South Africa. We have been playing in our home conditions for quite some time now while they will be playing in the sub-continent after a long time. We are hoping to put more emphasis on our spin department. However, we are practising some upper-level strokes, like the pull and cut shots,” he said.
Sabbir, who is an electric presence on the field, informed that they have not targeted a series win against the Proteas. Instead, the home side will be taking match-by-match.
Sabbir also spoke about the recent controversy surrounding one of Nasir Hossain’s pictures with his sister on his official Facebook page. The youngster urged everyone to support the national cricketers and not berate them with offensive comments.
