Shakib Al Hasan: In a significant turn of events within Bangladesh cricket, renowned all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been designated as the captain of the team for the forthcoming Asia Cup and World Cup 2023 in the One Day International format. Shakib assumes leadership responsibilities from Tamim Iqbal, who resigned from the position and withdrew from the Asia Cup due to an injury. The all-rounder has emerged as the top choice over other contenders such as Litton Das and Mehidy Hasan Miraz.
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BCB President says “Shakib was the main choice”
Assuming the role comes as a crucial juncture for Shakib in the context of Bangladesh’s cricketing journey. Following the Asia Cup, a significant home ODI series against New Zealand awaits in September, followed by their journey to India for the ODI World Cup, which commences on October 5. The announcement was made at te press briefing organised at the residence of BCB President Nazmul Hassan.
He stated, “Shakib Al Hasan is the captain for the Asia Cup, New Zealand series and World Cup,We will speak more to him when he returns to Bangladesh [from Lanka Premier League]. We have to know his long-term plan. I spoke to him on the phone yesterday. But it is better if we talk to him in person since he is busy with a franchise league currently. We will also talk about which format he will keep leading, whether it is all three formats or one or two of them.
Speaking about other options, he said, “There was never any confusion. I told you before. He is the obvious choice. Who else can lead? But we had to talk to him before appointing him. Nobody should think anything else. Shakib is the captain. He was always the main choice.”
Impressive numbers of Shakib Al Hasan
Shakib’s prior experience in leading Bangladesh is noteworthy, having captained the team in 49 ODIs during the period from 2009 to 2011. In this initial stint, he secured victories in 22 matches. His captaincy was marked by intermittent spells, often stepping in for the frequently-injured Mashrafe Mortaza. Subsequently, Shakib took charge of Bangladesh in an additional three ODIs, taking the reins on occasions in 2015 and 2017, each time as a substitute for Mashrafe. Shakib’s leadership history extends to 19 Tests and 39 T20Is for Bangladesh. His last appearance as captain in ODIs was in 2017, concluding a total of 52 ODIs under his guidance.
Tamim Iqbal out due to injury
The shift in leadership arises in the aftermath of Tamim’s resignation as Bangladesh’s ODI captain, driven by uncertainties surrounding his fitness as he recuperates from a back injury. Although he won’t be participating in the upcoming Asia Cup that commences on August 30, Tamim remains optimistic about regaining fitness for the ODI series against New Zealand starting on September 21, as well as the subsequent ODI World Cup.
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