(Image Source: Reuters)
[Saba Sports News] Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan termed their performance in the ongoing ICC World Cup as their worst in recent memory. Bangladesh suffered their fifth consecutive loss in the tournament, losing to the Netherlands by 87 runs, effectively ending their hopes of progressing beyond the group stage.
Leading up to the World Cup, Bangladesh had high hopes, but after their opening win against Afghanistan, they haven’t won a match. They had won at least three games in every World Cup since 2007, but this streak could end, with matches against Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Australia remaining.
“It is without a doubt our worst World Cup performance,” Shakib told reporters after the disappointing loss to the Netherlands. He expressed his inability to explain why they played this way and refrained from blaming anyone. Shakib acknowledged that their performance was below par and mentioned that the entire dressing room felt the same way.
He also admitted that they needed to make significant changes but stated that it wasn’t the right time to discuss them. Shakib expressed disappointment that Bangladesh hadn’t reached the semifinals in 24 years, given the passion for cricket in their country.
In terms of their performance, Shakib noted that, apart from Mahmudullah and Mushfiqur Rahim, the batting unit had underperformed. He believed they lacked confidence in both departments and mentioned their shortcomings in the field.
Regarding the decision to demote Mahmudullah to number seven against the Netherlands, Shakib acknowledged that they had limitations in both batting and bowling. He believed that if Mahmudullah had batted higher, it might have made a difference but conceded that the entire team had been disappointing.
Shakib also acknowledged that the departure of former ODI captain Tamim Iqbal from the 50-over setup could have had an impact on their World Cup journey, especially considering their recent differences. He pointed to different groups within the team during the period when he and Tamim were part of the national squad.