Shakib: A man apart
Shakib Al Hasan’s thought process has always been different from the rest and perhaps that is why he has always been able to set himself apart with his performances on the field. Even when it comes to off the field activities, Shakib has always portrayed a different mentality compared to any other Bangladeshi player.
When Bangladesh was praised by former cricketers and cricket experts for their performance in the recent World Cup, it was Shakib who was bold enough to point out that results wise, it was actually a disappointing campaign for the Tigers.
While many were pondering the ‘what ifs’ -- with utmost certainty that the Tigers would have won the match against Sri Lanka had it not been washed out -- Shakib said that after a defeat in their last World Cup match against Pakistan, Bangladesh were still miles away from justifying the praises they received for a World Cup where they won three matches to finish eighth.
Shakib still carries the same mentality -- that at the end of the day, the results always matter. With Bangladesh preparing for the one-off Test against Afghanistan, starting from September 5, Test skipper Shakib spoke on a lot of issues, ranging from the new coach to the replacement of Tamim Iqbal in the opening slot to make way for new faces. The 32-year-old echoed the sentiment of having a winning mentality while talking about the team’s issues after an event on Sunday.
For instance, when Shakib spoke of all the positives that the new head coach Russell Domingo could bring to the team, he did not forget to mention how results will speak volumes on his possible success or lack thereof.
“At times it depends on results to see if the coach is doing good or not. Sometimes it may happen that the coach is good but the result is not while the opposite is also possible.” said Shakib.
Shakib also mentioned Tamim’s replacement would be selected only after a thorough discussion with the management, adding that even if the team opts for a new face, it should not compromise their objective to win.
“Whenever any team prepares for a series or match they do not think that they are going with the intention to test new players. A team takes everything into account but at the end of the day, the target remains the same -- to win. We will also be playing with that target.” concluded Shakib.
Shakib’s message was clear, that they would go in with a winning mentality against any opposition regardless of whatever the tactics are required in the situation. It seems like Shakib is not the type who would be pleased to accept personal achievements, such as a century or five-wicket haul, as positives unless it brings the desired outcome, which is to win.
