Undoubtedly, Shakib Al Hasan’s sluggish beginning in the 2024 T20 World Cup poses a significant concern for Bangladesh. Struggling with form, the seasoned all-rounder’s performance jeopardizes his team’s prospects of advancing to the Super 8 stage. Once a dominant force in ICC’s all-rounder rankings, Shakib’s recent drop to No. 5 raises apprehensions for the Tigers’ campaign, highlighting worrisome signs for their journey ahead.

Despite being one of the leading wicket-takers in T20Is, Shakib faced a barren spell against Sri Lanka and South Africa. His recent encounters, particularly with Rishabh Pant’s onslaught, where he dispatched three consecutive sixes in one over, showcased a struggle for the Bangladesh stalwart. Even with the bat, Shakib’s contributions were minimal, registering scores of 8 and 3. Despite conducive bowling conditions in New York, Shakib failed to capitalize.

In the match against South Africa, Shakib attempted to break his form slump by taking on the formidable Anrich Nortje, who had been in stellar form. However, his efforts backfired as he only managed to top-edge a delivery, resulting in a straightforward catch for Aiden Markram within the circle. Bangladesh ultimately lost the match by 4 runs, with Shakib’s stroke appearing clumsy, lacking the necessary positioning for a successful shot.

Should Shakib retire after T20 world cup 2024?

Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag expressed frustration at Shakib’s shot against the Proteas, criticizing the former Bangladesh skipper for attempting such a risky move. Sehwag emphasized that Shakib shouldn’t be representing Bangladesh in T20Is beyond the current tournament. He highlighted that if Shakib is in the squad for his experience, it’s not yielding the expected results.

Sehwag remarked, “I feel, Shakib’s time was up long ago. If they have brought him for experience, it’s not showing results. Spend some time on this wicket. You are not Matthew Hayden or Adam Gilchrist that you are pulling. You are from Bangladesh, so play accordingly. The hook and pull isn’t your shot, then why play it?”

He further elaborated, “I feel if the results aren’t coming. Better lose with a young team. At least they will get experience. You bring experienced bowlers in the squad so that they take care of the team’s atmosphere, or they will use that experience to bat or bowl well, or to send down dot balls. I haven’t seen anything like that from Shakib. I don’t think after this World Cup, he should play or that he should be played.”

Shakib’s rise to fame wasn’t an overnight journey

Veteran Bangladesh cricketer Imrul Kayes came to Shakib’s defense, criticizing Sehwag for his remarks against the legendary all-rounder. Kayes, who boasts a career spanning 39 Tests, 78 ODIs, and 14 T20Is, rebuked Sehwag for lacking respect in his comments toward a player of Shakib’s stature.

Kayes emphasized that Shakib has earned his reputation over the years, and cricketers of his caliber deserve to be spoken of with dignity.

“I don’t understand how a legendary cricketer like him could make such remarks. You wouldn’t hear Sachin or Dravid speaking like this because they hold respect for players. Perhaps, since he didn’t receive that respect during his career, he doesn’t know how to give it to others,” Imrul expressed to CricFrenzy.

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Shakib’s moment has come

Shakib holds the record for the highest number of wickets in T20 World Cups, having participated in all 9 editions since 2007. However, he faced challenges in the past year, particularly after disclosing vision issues during the ODI World Cup.

Earlier in the year, Shakib encountered difficulties with both bat and ball during the initial stages of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) while representing the Rangpur Riders. However, once he regained his form, he proved to be a formidable opponent.

As the race for qualification to the Super 8s intensifies, Bangladesh finds themselves battling for the second spot in Group D, with South Africa already securing their place. Apart from Towhid Hriody and Mahmudullah Riyad, Bangladesh’s batsmen have struggled. It’s crucial for Shakib to rediscover his form promptly to aid the Tigers before their time runs out.