Shakib al Hasan’s poor form, particularly with the bat, raised criticism and even questions whether the star all-rounder is a burden for the Bangladesh team in 20-over format.
Social media was stirred after a comment from former Indian legendary opener Virender Sehwag when he said to Cricbuzz during a post match analysis that Shakib should have been ashamed at the way he got out in the last match against South Africa, and stopped playing Twenty20 Internationals long ago due to his poor form in the last few years.
In his entire career, Shakib has always been a crucial part of the Tigers’ playing XI for his dual role with bat and ball.
But he was under huge pressure against the Netherlands during their Group D encounter at Arnos Vale Stadium in Saint Vincent Thursday.
Bangladesh lost a couple of wickets early and Shakib came out to bat at 23/2.
The fall of two wickets within 3.1 overs made it an even more daunting task.
Already the pressure was big on Shakib owing to his poor batting form and he was struggling with the bat for his eye problem in the last few months.
But under the cosh, the left-hander played a superb unbeaten innings of 64 off 46 balls with nine boundaries.
Shakib handled it well and unleashed a special knock, like the vintage Shakib of old with his trade mark cut shots and drive.
In the end, Shakib’s 64-run innings was a crucial knock for not only Bangladesh but for Shakib as well as the Tigers are closing in on the Super 8 stage following the 25-run win over the Dutch.
And a confident Shakib with the willow will surely boost the Tigers batting in the coming matches.
