Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto responded with a blunt one-word reply regarding Shakib Al Hasan missing out on the ongoing edition of the Champions Trophy. Shakib had previously been reported for questionable bowling behaviour, which prevented him from passing his exams and qualifying for the multi-nation tournament. Additionally, Bangladesh will be participating in an ICC event without their best all-round player for the first time since Shakib's debut.
Najmul Hossain Shanto on Shakib Al Hasan
One of the reporters questioned Shanto about the impact of Shakib's absence from the Champions Trophy during the press conference held prior to Bangladesh's opening match against India on February 20 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Shanto responded with a single word: "No."
Shakib participated in the Test series Indian soil, which was his last assignment in International cricket. Political unrest in Bangladesh also prevented Shakib from participating in his "farewell Test" against South Africa in Mirpur. Additionally, he did not participate in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).
Shanto on match against India
Shanto, who amassed 286 runs at an average of 71.50 in ODIs the previous season, stated that Bangladesh is self-assured enough to challenge Rohit Sharma's India.
"I think we have to play well in all departments - batting, bowling, fielding - because I think the way we played the last few years in this format, I think we have a good side and, as you mentioned, the conditions are quite similar. I'm really confident that we will prepare ourselves well. I hope for the best for tomorrow's match,” Shanto said.
The previous time Bangladesh participated in the Champions Trophy, they were defeated by India at Edgbaston in Birmingham in the semifinals. Bangladesh defeated New Zealand by five wickets at Cardiff thanks to a century from Shakib. In addition to India, the Tigers will play New Zealand and Pakistan in the forthcoming competition.