DHAKA: In a strategic move, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has appointed Shakib Al Hasan as the captain of their one-day international (ODI) team, stepping in for the injured opener Tamim Iqbal. The decision was officially confirmed on Thursday, with Shakib set to lead the team during the upcoming World Cup, as well as the impending Asia Cup. The BCB spokesperson, Tanvir Ahmed said, stating that further details would be disclosed in due course.
Considering the challenging situation due to Tamim’s back injury and his race against time for recovery ahead of the World Cup, Shakib’s leadership experience was deemed crucial. The Board President, Nazmul Hassan, expressed his confidence in reappointing Shakib as the ODI captain for the Asia Cup later this month, followed by the World Cup scheduled to commence in India in early October.
“Shakib Al Hasan is our easiest and most obvious choice,” said Nazmul, acknowledging Shakib’s familiarity with the role and the team dynamics.
Shakib Al Hasan’s Captaincy
Shakib has previously captained the Bangladesh ODI squad from 2009 to 2017, overseeing 50 matches and leading the team to victory on 23 occasions, highlighting his prowess in the ODI format. He has also been at the helm of leadership across all three formats from 2009 to 2011.
The sudden development arose after Tamim Iqbal stepped down from his captaincy responsibilities last week due to his back injury. Tamim had initially announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket in July, only to reverse his decision within a day following the request of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Liton Das, an opening batsman, took charge of leading the Bangladesh team for the remaining Afghanistan ODIs subsequent to Tamim’s withdrawal. Meanwhile, Tamim, who had been granted a six-week break following his retraction of retirement, recently returned home after receiving medical treatment in the United Kingdom.
As the cricketing community watches closely, Tamim aims to make his return to the field when Bangladesh is scheduled to host New Zealand for a series of three ODIs in late September. This follows the Asia Cup, set to take place in Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
Bangladesh is slated to begin their World Cup campaign against Afghanistan in Dharamsala on October 7. With the baton passed to Shakib Al Hasan, the team sets its sights on navigating the challenges ahead and making a strong showing on the international stage.
