Around the time that the Tigers reached Wellington yesterday -- again aiming to clinch their first-ever win against New Zealand in their backyard when they play the last ODI of the three-match series on Friday -- Shakib Al Hasan was getting back to business and preparing himself for the upcoming Indian Premier League at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur after returning home from the United States on Monday night.

The two contrasting scenarios perhaps best epitomise the current debate surrounding country's best cricketer even though the premier all-rounder skipped the New Zealand tour after being granted paternity leave.

Amid all the recent chaos, the main question is about Shakib's preference of foreign franchise leagues to national duty, disregarding the fact that a preference for cash-rich franchise leagues over national duty is actually a global phenomenon.

Nothing could have been better for the Tigers than if they had Shakib's services in New Zealand or if they knew that the champion performer would be available for the next tour in Sri Lanka. But, in the new reality, they have to shine without their best player because it is unlikely that Shakib will be available for all their international engagements in the coming days.

PHOTO: STAR/COLLECTED

A good and healthy conclusion to the current debates cannot be expected, but the onus lies on the Bangladesh Cricket Board to act with true professionalism in order to find a fine balance.

Shakib, arguably the best cricketer Bangladesh has ever produced, achieved everything through his own volition. It is unthinkable, especially for a cricketing country like Bangladesh, that they will fill his vacuum overnight.

The left-hander has proved time and again that he can single-handedly turn the tide in favour of his side, but contrasting outcomes provide a good idea that team effort ultimately plays a key role in success.

Shakib's stupendous performances in the 2019 World Cup were not good enough to bring the Tigers any success because they could not play as a team. On the flipside, a good team effort brought the Tigers close to a win against New Zealand in their last ODI.

There has been no shortage of controversy in his colorful career, but if Shakib's teammates can take one leaf from the all-rounder's book, then it should be about his on field intensity and unquestionable professional approach. He has already left a legacy for the future cricketers, showing them the way to become established as a world-beater. The way he prepares himself mentally and visualises the game and reads the opponent is exemplary.

On the occasion of his 34th birthday yesterday, Shakib's teammates congratulated him overwhelmingly on Facebook, hailing him as an inspiration and Bangladesh's greatest cricketer.

Pacer Mustafizur Rahman perfectly wrote: "Shakib Al Hasan - the name of inspiration. An elder brother. You are very special to us. Learning lots of things from you. You are one of my inspirations. On this special day, I am wishing you a very happy birthday. May Almighty bless you always!"

If Mustafizur and his teammates can take the on-field inspiration from their very special cricketer, then there is no doubt they can rewrite history in New Zealand and in future games.