World Cup 2023: The 2023 Cricket World Cup has witnessed its share of highs and lows. In an unexpected turn of events, Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh’s cricket captain, has suddenly returned to Dhaka in the middle of the tournament. This move has sent shockwaves across the cricketing fraternity, given the team’s current standing in the World Cup.
A Blow to an Underperforming Bangladesh:
Shakib Al Hasan’s return to Dhaka is undoubtedly a setback for the Bangladesh cricket team, which is already grappling with performance issues in this World Cup.
Bangladesh’s Struggles in the World Cup:
World Cup 2023: Of the five matches played by Bangladesh in the ongoing World Cup hosted by India, they have managed to secure victory in only one. This performance hasn’t met the expectations of their ardent fans. Shakib’s sudden departure has only compounded the challenges faced by the team.
The Timeline of Events:
Following a crushing 149-run defeat to South Africa on 24 October, Shakib made his way to Dhaka the very next day. With Bangladesh scheduled to play against the Netherlands on 28 October in Kolkata, this was indeed a surprising move. As per ‘ESPNcricinfo’, upon reaching Dhaka, Shakib met his mentor, Nazmul Abedin Faheem. He proceeded to the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium where he immersed himself in a three-hour practice session.
Shakib’s Return Plan:
World Cup 2023: Nazmul Abedin Faheem, Shakib’s mentor, revealed that the star cricketer would practice in Dhaka for three days before rejoining the team in Kolkata. Bangladesh is slated to play back-to-back matches in Kolkata, facing off against the Netherlands and then Pakistan at the iconic Eden Gardens.
Shakib’s Performance in the Tournament:
In the matches played so far, Shakib’s form has been less than stellar. With scores of 14, 01, 40, and 01 in four innings and a total of five wickets across four matches, he has not lived up to his reputation.
Team Bangladesh’s World Cup Stance:
World Cup 2023: As of now, Bangladesh stands ninth on the points table, with a concerning net run rate of -1.253. With such stats, the team’s chances of advancing to the semi-finals look bleak. Nonetheless, no team has been formally ruled out from the running.
conclusion, Shakib Al Hasan’s sudden departure and return plan, juxtaposed with Bangladesh’s performance in the World Cup, has left fans and experts alike in suspense. The cricket world waits with bated breath to see how these unfolding events impact the team’s journey in the remainder of the tournament.
Image Credit – mykhel
