Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has responded to criticism from former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag after his crucial half-century against Netherlands in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. Shakib Al Hasan stated that his main goal is to contribute to his team instead of responding to criticism.
Shakib Al Hasan faced criticism after performing poorly in the first two matches of this ongoing T20 World Cup. The veteran cricketer was back in form against the Netherlands in St. Vincent on Thursday, June 13. He was named ‘Man of the Match’ for his all-round performance in Bangladesh’s crucial 25-run victory.
The 37-year-old scored an unbeaten 64 runs off 46 balls, hitting nine boundaries as Bangladesh set a target of 160 runs. He did not take any wickets but conceded only 29 runs in his four overs. Bangladesh restricted the Netherlands to 134 runs in 20 overs, moving closer to securing a place in the Super Eight stages.
I don’t think it’s a bad thing – Shakib Al Hasan
The left-handed batsman scored eight and three runs in Bangladesh’s first two group matches against Sri Lanka and South Africa respectively. Virender Sehwag claimed that Shakib should “be ashamed of his performances” and “retire from the format” after Bangladesh’s narrow four-run loss to South Africa.
In the press conference after the match against Netherlands, Shakib Al Hasan addressed comments from Virender Sehwag and others about his performance. When asked about it by a reporter, Shakib questioned “who” had made the comment and said that a player’s responsibility is to contribute to the team.
“A player never comes to answer any question. A player’s job is to hit for the team if he is a hitter and contributes to the team. If he is a bowler, his job is to do well. The wicket is about luck. If he is a fielder, he must save every run and make as many catches as he can. Here, in reality, there is nothing to answer for anyone. I think it is important for a current player how much he can contribute to his team. When he cannot contribute, naturally there will be arguments and I don’t think that is a bad thing,” Shakib said.
I have never worried about my performances – Shakib Al Hasan
The former Bangladesh captain expressed that he has never been worried about his performance throughout his career. Shakib mentioned that he has always prioritized contributing to the team’s success.
“I have never worried about my performance. I don’t think I’ve ever had that thought in my career. I feel good if I can contribute to the team. Like I said, maybe today is my day, but maybe in the next game someone else’s day will come,” he added.
The Najmul Hossain Shanto-led team will take on Nepal in their final group stage match at Arnos Vale Ground, Kingstown, St. Vincent on Sunday, June 16. The Bangladesh team won two of three matches, and a victory in their final match will help them secure their place in the next stage.
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