Explained: Why was Shakib Al Hasan chewing on thread while batting?

Day 2 of the ongoing Test match between India and Bangladesh concluded with team India in the driver’s seat. After the home team posted a total of 376 runs in the first innings, the side limited Bangladesh to a total of just 149 runs in the first innings. 

The visitors opened their innings with Shadman Islam and Zakir Hasan who departed for just two and three runs, respectively. Furthermore, Najmul Hossain Shanto added 20 runs on the board, with Mominul Haque departing for a golden duck. 

Veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan came out to bat on a score of 36/4; however, he caught many fans’ eyes but not through his batting. In a clip that has been going viral all over social media, Shakib appeared to be biting on the strap of his helmet. 

However, upon closer inspection, it was revealed that he was biting on a thread with his helmet strap still in its place. It is worth noting that Shakib let go of the thread when he went on the non-striker’s end. Many fans were left wondering why Shakib was doing so, and Dinesh Karthik on commentary had the answer. 

Getting his information from Tamim Iqbal, who was also in the commentator’s box, Karthik revealed that biting on the thread was a cue for Shakib to keep his helmet straight, i.e. facing the bowler, at least in his mind if not physically.

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India lead Bangladesh by 308 runs

Speaking of the game, after bundling out Bangladesh for a meagre total of 149 runs, team India got off to a subpar start to the second innings. The side opened with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma scoring 10 and five runs, respectively. 

Furthermore, Virat Kohli departed for just 17 runs as well. As Day 2 ended, India found themselves on a score of 81 runs, having lost three wickets in the process. Day 3 will begin with Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant batting at scores of 33* and 12* runs, respectively with the lead being 308.