Shakib Al Hasan nullifies Virender Sehwag's existence after just 1 good performance in T20 World Cup 2024

Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan responded to criticism from former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag after his crucial half-century against the Netherlands in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024. Shakib Al Hasan stated that his primary goal is to contribute to his team rather than respond to criticism.

Shakib Al Hasan faced criticism after underperforming in the first two matches of this ongoing T20 World Cup. The veteran cricketer returned to form against the Netherlands in St. Vincent on Thursday, June 13. He was named "Player of the Match" for his all-round performance in Bangladesh's crucial 25-run win.

The 37-year-old scored an unbeaten 64 runs off 46 balls, hitting nine boundaries as Bangladesh set a target of 160 runs. He did not take any wickets but conceded only 29 runs in his four overs. Bangladesh restricted the Netherlands to 134 runs in 20 overs, moving closer to securing a spot in the Super Eight stages.

I Don't Think It Is A Bad Thing - Shakib Al Hasan

The left-handed batter scored eight and three runs in Bangladesh's first two group games against Sri Lanka and South Africa, respectively. Virender Sehwag stated that Shakib should "feel ashamed of his performances" and "retire from the format" following Bangladesh's narrow four-run loss to South Africa.

In the press conference after the game against the Netherlands, Shakib Al Hasan addressed Virender Sehwag's and others' comments about his performance. When asked about it by a reporter, Shakib questioned "who" had made the remark and said that a player's responsibility is to contribute to the team.

“A player never comes to answer any questions. A player's job is to bat for the team if he's a batsman and contributes to the team. If he is a bowler, his job is to bowl well. The wicket is about luck. If he is a fielder, he should save each run and take as many catches as he can. Here, actually, there's nothing to answer for anyone. I think it is important for a current player how much he can contribute to his team. When he can't contribute, then naturally there would be discussions and I don't think it is a bad thing,” said Shakib.

Have Never Been Worried About My Performances - Shakib Al Hasan

The former Bangladesh captain expressed that he has never been concerned about his performance throughout his career. Shakib mentioned that he has always prioritized contributing to the team's success.

“I have never been worried about my performance. I don't think that I ever had that thought in my career. I feel good If I can contribute to the team. As I said, maybe today is my day, but maybe someone else's day will come in the next match,” he added.

The Najmul Hossain Shanto-led team will face Nepal in their final group stage match at Arnos Vale Ground, Kingstown, St Vincent on Sunday, June 16. The Bangladesh team won two out of three matches, and a victory in their final match will help them secure their place in the next stage.

Also read: Mohammed Siraj kicked aside as Anil Kumble picks Arshdeep Singh as India's second-best pacer