T20 cricket has affected my bowling, says Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan

Bangladesh all-rounder and former skipper Shakib Al Hasan shared that playing regular T20 cricket has affected his bowling in Test matches. Shakib is currently at the top of the charts in the ICC Allrounders Rankings in all three formats of the game. He is without a doubt the greatest player to have represented the national team.

In recent times, Shakib has been the pillar of the Bangladesh team. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a valuable player in any side. Shakib had a successful stint with the Kolkata Knight Riders in the last few years, having won two IPL titles with them. He’s made a mark for himself in world cricket with consistent performances in every department.

With the Champions Trophy round the corner, Shakib will certainly be a player to watch out for. Bangladesh, taking part in the mega-event after 11 years, will expect the senior pro to deliver on the big stage.

Half batsman half bowler

Before he left the IPL this season, the 30-year-old said, “I am 50 percent a batsman and 50 percent a bowler. If I bat well, then it inspires me bowl first and if I bowl well, then there is an inspiration to bat well. So I rely upon one of the aspects and I look forward to contributing to the team.”

Not many all-rounders have been able to occupy the no.1 position in the ICC rankings, moreover, for all three formats. Shakib’s remarkable and unprecedented achievement establishes him as a gem of a cricketer. The Bangladeshi shared a few tidbits about the challenges of being an all-rounder.

“Sometimes, the body doesn’t permit that much especially when we play in weather like in Sri Lanka where it is so hot. It was difficult to come out and bat after bowling 30-40 overs but it’s a challenge I love. I like to play in these challenging conditions,” he added.

Shakib went on to share his views on the changes that T20 cricket have brought to his game in particular. He said, “On change that T20 cricket has affected is my bowling in Test cricket. Because of playing so much T20 cricket, bowling has been affected as a bad ball in T20 cricket can be a good ball whereas, in Test cricket, only a good ball is only a good ball.”

A seasoned campaigner, Shakib has an 11 years of international experience under his belt. The all-rounder boasts of over 9000 international runs and 400 wickets at the highest level. He has had his fair share in all three formats of the game and has had to play in various circumstances of the game.

When asked about bowling in different situations, Shakib said, “Not much change but I have been playing for Bangladesh team for so long and I have bowled in all stages and I know what to expect from the batsman. I have bowled with the new ball and have also bowled the last over as well.”

He is currently on national duty in the Ireland Tri-Nation series which features hosts Ireland, and New Zealand as well.