Much have been said about the Tigers’ batting order, but Shakib Al Hasan is not lending his ears. The Bangladesh all-rounder is only concentrating on the matches ahead, knowing two wins in the three remaining ties will ensure a last eight berth.
“It depends on the captain and the coach. They will do what is the best for the team. I don’t think anybody will disagree with their decision,” Shakib told reporters in Nelson on Tuesday.
“It’s pretty simple. We will reach the quarterfinals if we win two of the three remaining matches. No ifs and buts if we can do this,” said a confident Shakib.
On shambolic fielding against Sri Lanka, Shakib said it was just a bad day in the office.
“We fielded very well in previous matches. There are games you do well, but at times things get worse. It’s part of the game. But, we are working on it,” said the left-handed all-rounder.
Shakib feels fast bowlers will be the key in the Tigers’ next matches.
“We are not sure if spinners would decide the match. The wickets were not spin-friendly in our previous two matches. I think the pacers will have to take the lead,” said a candid Shakib.
He thinks win against Scotland will boost the team’s confidence.
“Boys performing well will certainly be in high spirits. This match is important from that perspective as well,” he further said.
Scotland has hired former Tigers coach Shane Jurgensen for their crunch tie against Bangladesh, but Shakib is unfazed by the move.
“Nowadays people watch many matches and analyze them. But planning is not everything. You have to win it on the pitch,” Shakib added.
Source: Prothom Alo
