Tamim defends Shakib’s place in playing XI

Shakib Al Hasan has looked off colour with the ball and bat in Bangladesh's first two matches in this ICC T20 World Cup 2024 and some experts have even started questioning his place in the playing XI.

However, former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal has come out in defence of the all-rounder, saying the team should not drop him from the XI.

"Definitely not," Tamim told the ESPNCricinfo when asked if Shakib should be dropped from the XI in Bangladesh's next match, which will be against the Netherlands on June 13 in St. Vincent.

Shakib is yet to claim a wicket in this T20 World Cup, going for 30 runs in his three overs against Sri Lanka and then bowing just one over against South Africa, which went for six.

Tamim felt that Shakib's poor returns with the ball is a worrying sign for the Tigers.

"Shakib's four overs are very important. He is an experienced bowler. He has been the number one all-rounder for many years. So, if he isn't bowling his full four overs, then it's a problem."

The all-rounder has not had a good time with bat as well, making eight and three against Sri Lanka and South Africa respectively.

Shakib got dismissed to bouncers in both matches, getting caught at third man against the Lankans and top-edging the ball to mid-wicket against the Proteas.

Tamim felt that Shakib's eye problems, which came to light earlier this year during the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), might be making it difficult for him to deal with short deliveries.

"Due to eye problems, Shakib has recently been facing difficulties playing short balls. I believe he should work more on this and consider how he will approach the game in the future."