'Will love to finish 5-6 if not in the semis' - Shakib Al Hasan after Bangladesh's massive loss to South Africa
Bangladesh slumped to their fourth consecutive defeat in the ODI World Cup 2023 as South Africa beat them by 149 runs on Tuesday.
The fans who visited the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on October 24 to watch the game between South Africa and Bangladesh were treated to some excellent batting. However, the result did not turn out to be fruitful for the 'Bangla Tigers' as they lost by a whopping 149 runs. This was their fourth consecutive defeat in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023.
The Proteas posted a mammoth 382/5 in their 50 overs after opting to bat first on the back of Quinton de Kock's brilliant 174 off 140. Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller also made significant contributions. In reply, Mahmudullah notched up his first ODI century in six years but Bangladesh were bowled out for 233 in helpful batting conditions.
Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan opined that his bowlers did well in the first 25 overs but had no answer to the onslaught from the opposition in the latter half of the innings.
"We bowled first 25 overs well. We got three wickets, they were going at about 5 an over. From there they kicked on. Quinton batted really well, and the way Klaasen finished was something we didn't have any answer to. On a ground like this it can happen but we should've bowled better. Lost the game in the last 10 overs," Shakib told the broadcasters after Bangladesh's loss.
Check Here: Most Wickets in ODI World Cup 2023
Our top four batters need to do well: Shakib Al Hasan
The talismanic all-rounder hoped for a better performance from the top four batters going forward in the World Cup. He also wanted his team to finish at No. 5 or 6 in the points table, if not in the top four.
"Has been lot of talking about whether Mushfiq and Mahmudullah should bat higher. But the role they have, they're doing very well. Our top four batters need to do well. Long way to go in this tournament, anything can happen. Lot to be learnt, and lot to play for. Will love to finish 5-6 if not in the semis. We're not playing like a team that can do it, but hope to finish stronger," Shakib added.
Also Check: ODI World Cup 2023 Points Table
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