Shakib not ruling out a career in politics
Bangladesh T20I and Test captain Shakib Al Hasan refrained from saying no to a career in politics. The all-rounder was pictured in the residence of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina last month but stated that it had nothing to do with politics and was just a simple “courtesy call.”
“It was a courtesy call. She loves cricket very much and always encourages cricketers,” Shakib was quoted as saying by Indian Express.
He, however, was coy on suggestions on whether he could become a politician in the future, abstaining from ruling out a post-cricket career in politics while also stating that he is focusing on cricket right now.
“Nobody can say about his future. I want to live in the present. But I’m not ruling out anything.
“I have not given any thought to it, it’s difficult to talk about it now. Cricket is my life and my focus will stay there only.”
Bringing the focus on cricket, the best all-rounder in the world revealed his admiration for wrist-spinners. The current purple cap holder in the IPL is Mayank Markande while Rashid Khan has also been phenomenal thus far – and Shakib Al Hasan believes that the ability to turn the ball on any wicket helps the wrist spinners.
“Not everyone is used to playing against wrist spinners, so batsmen are finding it difficult to negotiate. They (leg-spinners) can turn the ball on any type of wicket, so it’s an advantage for them.
“But the more you play, the better you adapt. It’s a new thing now. But I’m sure the batsmen will adapt quickly and will be able to play them easily,” Shakib added.
Shakib is currently team-mates with Rashid Khan and showered him with praises and hoped that he would continue his good form.
“It’s a good combination going on. He is doing well for the team for a long time. It is indeed a big plus to have a bowler like Rashid in our team. Hopefully, he will win more matches for us.”
Shakib Al Hasan will play Kolkata Knight Riders later today in a clash that sees him, Manish Pandey and Yusuf Pathan facing their former side. Shakib added that he has a lot of memories with Kolkata but now hopes to make the same with the Sunrisers.
“We won the title twice there. Of course, I’ve some great memories attached with KKR in the seven-year association. But Orange is my colour now,” Shakib said.
“In IPL, it’s not in your hands as to which team you would be picked. The franchises have the last say. We have to move on. Hopefully, I will be able to create some good memories with Sunrisers Hyderabad as well. That’s my aim.”
Shakib Al Hasan had a decent start for Hyderabad in the IPL. He has picked up three wickets in his first two games but hasn’t yet been able to replicate similar form in batting, although he just got one chance to bat thus far.
