Shakib Al Hasan reflects on T20I loss to USA.

Veteran Bangladeshi player Shakib Al Hasan said in the press conference after the game that he was disappointed with the manner his team lost the match, but he also commended the USA for their tenacity and unflinching resolve. He emphasized that this series loss should act as a wake-up call for the squad, since they haven’t been playing as well as they had intended, and he brought up the upcoming T20 World Cup after the series.

Even though the current IPL 2024 is receiving most of the attention, with the remainder going to England and Pakistan bilateral series and West Indies and South Africa bilateral series, it would be incredibly unfair to ignore the incredible feat that the USA accomplished in winning a series against Bangladesh.

The USA bowlers produced an incredible comeback, stifling the Bangladeshi batting order by taking six wickets for just 36 runs after the visitors were in a commanding position, needing only 43 runs in the final six overs. Not only did they win the second Twenty20 International by a narrow margin, but the thrilling victory was also fueled by this unbelievable comeback. The USA won a record series victory against a Test-playing nation because to this incredible victory, which they accomplished despite losing the toss.

“We’re disappointed, of course, and weren’t prepared for it, but we have to give the USA team credit for their performance. Nobody, I believe, anticipated that we would drop two games. You don’t want to lose a game, therefore it’s clearly really frustrating when you lose as a team in any match. Shakib said at the post-match press conference, “Having said that, we have to play in the World Cup, and this series might be a wake-up call for us as we haven’t played the way we want to play.”

In Twenty20 Cricket, you can’t take anything lightly: Shakib Al Hasan

The southpaw highlighted that all teams are as competitive in Twenty20 cricket, citing the passionate displays of Nepal and Ireland in their respective series against West Indies A and Ireland, as well as the recent close matches between Ireland and the Netherlands. He pointed out that the dynamics of the game might change significantly in only one or two overs. Additionally, he emphasized how crucial it is to constantly be ready for obstacles and to never take anything for granted, particularly in the 20-over format.

Also Read: KL Rahul Warns Langer: India’s Coach Role 1000x More Pressure Than IPL

“In Twenty20, all teams are essentially equal. I watched the West Indies A vs. Nepal game, and they played a great game. I’ve also watched games between Ireland and the Netherlands, and those are incredibly close games. Ireland defeated Pakistan, and in Twenty20 cricket, anything can happen. You cannot take anything lightly in Twenty20 cricket as one or two overs can drastically alter the game’s trajectory and outcome. It all depends on who plays better on that particular day. Because of this, you always welcome difficulties and never take anything for granted, Shakib continued.