11 Facts about Shakib Al Hasan: The wily Bangladesh all-rounder

Shakib Al Hasan has been an important part of the renaissance of Bangladesh cricket. He has been the best cricketer Bangladesh has produced by a country mile. His slow left-arm bowling and world class batting skills have made him one of the best all-rounders in the world. His exploits in Bangladesh cricket has seen him rewarded with an IPL contract. That said, he will be key should Bangladesh become a heavyweight in the coming years. On his 29th birthday, here are a few facts about Shakib-al-Hasan – The wily Bangladesh all-rounder.

1. Birth:

Shakib Al Hasan was born on the 24^th of March 1987 at Magura, Khulna, Bangladesh.

2. The face of Bangladesh cricket:

Since his debut all those years back in 2007, Shakib has well and truly become the face of Bangladesh cricket. Such is his importance of the side that one innings from him can turn the game on its head. More importantly, he has unflustered belief and excellent temperament, especially on the big occasion apart from the bundles of talent he already possesses.

3. The top brass:

Shakib seemingly had it all. He was a threat with the bat while his wily spinning prowess ensured that he was at least economical if not picking up wickets. With leadership qualities beyond compare, he was an easy choice for captaincy. He was made the ‘top brass’ of the side in early 2009.

4. ‘Attitude Problem’:

On 7 July 2014, Shakib was banned for six months from all sorts of cricket for what the Bangladesh Cricket Board described as a “severe attitude problem”. He has also had fall-outs with the BCB as well and current Bangladesh head coach Chandika Haturusingha in the past. He has also threatened to retire from international cricket after the BCB didn’t allow him to participate in the Caribbean Premier League.

5. The flying stumps:

Bangladesh’s Asia Cup 2016 campaign was a fruitful one. They won three of their four matches to meet India in the final, a match which they would eventually lose. In the match against Pakistan, Shakib was clean bowled by Mohammad Amir in the 18th over by an impressive in-swinger from Mohammad Amir. He took out his frustration by swiping his bat on the stumps. He was subsequently warned by Jeff Crowe, the match referee.

6. A true ‘Knight Rider’:

Shakib has been part of IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders since 2011. He has won the IPL with the Kolkata-based outfit on 2 occasions in 2012 and 2014.

7. A national icon:

He is one of only 3 players to score a century and take 10 wickets in a Test match. His achievements on the pitch brought him numerous accolades, the world and Asian XI call-ups, Wisden recognition and established him as a national icon.

8. Shakib the Journey Man:

Shakib has a rare distinction of playing in over 5 countries. The teams he has represented are – Bangladesh, Adelaide Strikers, Bangladesh A, Bangladesh Cricket Board XI, Barbados Tridents, Dhaka Gladiators, Karachi Kings, Khulna Division, Kolkata Knight Riders, Worcestershire.

9. Love for Indian bowling:

It is no secret that Shakib Al Hasan loves Indian bowling. In 15 ODIs against the Indians, he has scored 492 runs at an average of 37.92, higher than any other side he has played against. He also has 17 wickets against the Indians.

10. Brand value:

Pepsi, Boost and Norton Antivirus are some of the brands that have been endorsed by Shakib in the past. Elite Force and Runner Group are some of the sporting brands endorsed by the 29-year old.

11. A footballing heart:

Shakib Al Hasan is a fan of FC Barcelona and has stated that he would like to watch an EL-Clasico at the Nou Camp.