Bangladesh T20 skipper and ace all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan believes in Bangladesh’s prospects of doing well in the next ICC Twenty20 World Cup in June will be aided by the playing conditions in the United States (US) and the West Indies.
"The tournament will take place in the US and the West Indies. The condition will suit our style of cricket. So, we have a good chance," Shakib told the reporters in Mirpur on Tuesday.
Shakib also mentioned Bangladesh's improved record in the format in 2023, when they won 10 of 14 matches, and expressed hope that the squad will bring that momentum into the T20 World Cup.
"We have been playing really well in T20s in the last one year. The team is well balanced, it's also in good rhythm. Everyone's playing well. The team played well in New Zealand as well. Of course, we have a lot of expectations," said the all-rounder.
Shakib, who ran in the national elections last Sunday, is now training to get back in shape for the upcoming season of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), stating that he did not want to waste any time.
Shakib was spotted with the team at the Bashundhara playground, working on his batting under the guidance of the trainer.
The all-rounder visited the trainer and doctor on Monday at Mirpur’s Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium following the end of the national election.
“As BPL is getting started, I need preparation. I was out of the field for 2.5 months, I didn’t focus on my fitness, skills so it will take time to work over it. So I didn’t want to waste any time,” said Shakib.
Shakib suffered a finger injury on his left hand. He said that he is trying to make a speedy comeback, but it will take some time as the injury occurred on his bowling finger. Rangpur Riders have signed the all-rounder for this year's event, which begins on January 19.