In the run-up to the World Cup 2023, Bangladesh's veteran cricketer, Mashrafe Mortaza, has come forward in staunch defense of Shakib Al Hasan, lambasting critics for what he termed their 'jealousy'. This comes after Shakib was unfortunately sidelined from Bangladesh's preparatory warm-up match against Dasun Shanaka's Sri Lanka on Saturday, September 29, at Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. Reports suggest that Shakib suffered an injury during a golf game.
This incident sparked further speculation regarding Shakib's participation in the inaugural match against Afghanistan, led by Hashmatullah Shahidi. With Shakib's potential absence from the game, Mehidy Hasan Miraz took up the mantle of leadership, captaining Bangladesh in the aforementioned warm-up encounter.
Amidst this backdrop, several debates surfaced questioning Shakib's inclusion in the World Cup squad. Responding to the critics, Mashrafe vented his frustration by labeling the present generation as 'mentally sick'. He believes unwarranted criticism is doing a disservice to a player of Shakib's stature, especially on the eve of such a significant tournament.
"Shakib was injured, so he didn't play (1st warm-up), may he recover soon, but I've seen many writing or saying that since he's injured whether he'll play or not! Many wrote that he should be excluded from the team. Is this even a matter? What kind of mental sickness is this!" Mashrafe wrote on his personal Facebook account.
"Which generation are we seeing, what kind of thoughts are they growing up with? What will they achieve in life by growing so much jealousy in their minds?"
To add fuel to the fire, Shakib found himself in the crosshairs of critics again when Tamim Iqbal was omitted from the Bangladesh squad. Shakib, in a candid chat with T-Sports, referred to the left-handed batsman's inflexibility regarding his batting position as 'childish'.
Mashrafe Mortaza, who steered Bangladesh's ship in the 2019 World Cup, urged fans and critics alike to rally behind the team. He emphasized the importance of unified support in their quest to clinch the coveted World Cup trophy on Indian soil.
"Is this a team of an individual or of a country? Not only Shakib, all of them are our representatives. They are bearers of our own world cup dream," Mashrafe added.
"The favourite cricketer of some people may not be there, or may not perform. But the team is ours, and that should be remembered. To be with the world cup team and to give them the belief is most important now," he stated.
As the World Cup 2023 gains momentum, it remains to be seen how Bangladesh navigates these challenges and focuses on their primary goal – winning matches and making their nation proud.
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