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Bangladesh were knocked out World Cup 2023 semi-final race after their seven-wicket loss to Pakistan at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Bangladesh’s batting once again crumbled as they were bowled out for 204 with 29 balls left in the innings. Skipper Shakib Al Hasan demoted himself down the order to no.6 but he managed to get some runs under his belt. Sacrificing his spot for in-form Mahmudullah, Shakib scored 43 runs from 64 balls after opting to bat first. In the post-match presentation, he was gutted about Bangladesh’s sixth loss of the tournament but was relieved to get some runs.
“We are not getting many runs from the top four batsmen. I was batting in the top four, I wasn't scoring. My confidence was low too. Luckily I got some runs, feeling better now,” Shakib told Ramiz Raja after the match.
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Shakib also said that they were unable to put enough runs on the board against Babar Azam-led side despite a batting-friendly track. He blamed early wickets for not getting a big score.
“Not enough runs, The wicket was really good, we lost early wickets again. There were some partnerships, but not big partnerships. Disappointing with the bat. Credit should go to Pakistan, the way they bowled and the way they batted in the first 10 overs,” the skipper said.
While Shakib was open the changing his batting position in the upcoming games, he felt that too much chopping and changing wouldn't do them any good. He also thanked the fans for their support.
“At this moment, changing too many things gets difficult. We have to keep moving forward. We have to perform together. We need collective performance, which is not happening. Two more matches, hopefully we can bounce back. Everywhere we go, they (fans) keep supporting us. We have to give something back to them so they can smile,” the all-rounder concluded.
This was Bangladesh's sixth loss of the tournament. They are currently placed ninth on the points table. Bangladesh will take on Sri Lanka on November 6 in Delhi followed by Australia on November 11 in Pune.
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