Bangladesh veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan achieved a historic milestone during his team’s clash against India in the Super Eight stage of the T20 World Cup 2024. In a tense encounter at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, North Sound, Antigua, the Bangla Tigers faced the formidable task of attempting to halt the undefeated Indian side.
Shakib Al Hasan has become the first player in history to take 50 wickets in T20 World Cups. He achieved this exceptional feat in the fourth over of India’s innings by dismissing India’s captain Rohit Sharma. This remarkable accomplishment cements his status as one of the greatest players in T20 cricket history.
The all-important wicket saw Shakib surpass some renowned bowlers in the annals of T20 World Cup history. Here is how the top wicket-takers list stands:
1. Shakib Al Hasan: 50 wickets in 42 matches
2. Shahid Afridi: 39 wickets in 34 matches
3. Lasith Malinga: 38 wickets in 31 matches
4. Wanindu Hasaranga: 37 wickets in 19 matches
5. Saeed Ajmal: 36 wickets in 23 matches
Sharing the new ball with Mahedi Hasan, Shakib bowled the second over of the innings but conceded 15 runs. However, in his second over, he rebounded by taking the pivotal wicket of Rohit Sharma. Rohit tried to advance on a delivery from Shakib, attempting to hit over the cover region, but his shot was miscued. The ball did not carry to its intended destination, and instead, the cover fielder sprinted to his right and took a superb catch.
The match began with Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossan Shanto winning the toss and opting to bowl first, hoping to restrict India to a manageable total. Bangladesh made a strategic change by bringing in Jaker Ali for Taskin Ahmed.
Najmul expressed his strategy post-toss, saying, “We would like to bowl first, restrict them to a small total, and that is the plan. We know the conditions here and also about the wind factor. Looks a good wicket. 150-160 will be a good score I reckon.
. We have one change – Taskin is not playing.”
India’s captain Rohit Sharma also shared his perspective, saying, “We wanted to bat and that’s what we got. Looks like a good wicket and depends on how much the sun is beating down and making the pitch slow. Important to assess the conditions quickly. We are playing the same team. Important to stay in the present and not worry about other things.”
The pressure was palpable as both teams took to the field. Bangladesh’s playing XI consisted of Tanzid Hasan, Litton Das (wicketkeeper), Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Towhid Hridoy, Shakib Al Hasan, Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali, Rishad Hossain, Mahedi Hasan, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, and Mustafizur Rahman.
India fielded a strong lineup as well, with Rohit Sharma (captain), Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper), Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, and Jasprit Bumrah.
Rohit’s wicket became a pivotal moment in the match, as it was not just a crucial breakthrough but also marked Shakib’s place in history. The Indian skipper attempted an aggressive approach to upend the pressure but miscalculated his shot, resulting in an early setback for India.
Shakib’s milestone was a testament to his enduring skill and commitment on the international stage, having been a stalwart for Bangladesh cricket over the years. Known for his clever bowling variations and strategic prowess, Shakib’s achievement is a bright spot for Bangladesh amid the intense competition of the T20 World Cup.
As the match progressed, the challenge for Bangladesh remained significant. Their strategy focused on leveraging early success and exploiting any vulnerabilities in the Indian batting lineup. India’s approach, spurred by their deep batting order and rich vein of form, posed a formidable challenge for the Bangladesh bowlers.
Shakib’s historic achievement adds to his illustrious career, enhancing his reputation as a legend of the game and a crucial figure in Bangladesh cricket’s narrative. His ability to deliver in high-stakes moments is why he remains an indispensable asset for his team.
As the T20 World Cup 2024 advances, Shakib Al Hasan’s record will be a high point, remembered not just for the numbers but also for the sheer determination and brilliance it represents. His 50-wicket milestone sets a new benchmark, inspiring both his teammates and future generations of cricketers.
