Shakib's new source of energy

It seemed like Shakib Al Hasan was not standing on the green grass of the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium, but as if he was off in America, cuddling his two-month child in his arms, when he was speaking about his little bundle of joy.

There was no official training session for the Tigers yesterday but the ace all-rounder, who returned home on Wednesday night from America to join the national team camp for the upcoming four-match T20I series against Zimbabwe, came to Mirpur for practice along with a few other cricketers. The all-rounder was in a joyful mood but was not ready to respond to questions about cricket. However, he bared his soul when asked: "How was your trip and how is your princess?"

"I went there for holidays and enjoyed every bit and roamed as much as possible," was the first response from Shakib, who was very excited when he recalled how his mother (Shirin Akhter) -- who traveled with him on December 28 last year to see her grandchild -- was surprised to see the snowfall all around. "It was my mother's first visit to America and she was so surprised to see snow all around because it was a new experience for her," Shakib said, sharing his experience.

The most pleasing experience however was to have got the experience of babysitting. "I didn't show that much affection towards infants before. But my two-month baby was on my chest most of the time during my stay. I took care of her, including changing her diapers, and I enjoyed everything. That was a special feeling," said a glowing Shakib.

When a journalist asked Shakib what he wanted his daughter to be when she grew up, Shakib smilingly said: "I don't think there is a possibility of her playing cricket. And because of me and my wife's height, I don't think she can have a bright future in basketball. So, tennis and golf can be options.

Although Shakib was there for only a short while, he enjoyed various activities during that span. He not only spent time with his daughter but also went sightseeing with his wife, Umme Ahmed Shishir, who received a surprise birthday gift from Shakib; a helicopter ride around the city.

After a gruelling season in the past year, Shakib seemed to return with a lot of energy after spending time with his little princess Alaina Hasan Aubrey ahead of another demanding year.