I am happy they did it without me: Shakib Al Hasan on Bangladesh’s historic Test win vs New Zealand

Bangladesh’s most popular cricketer Shakib Al Hasan said that he was actually happy that the national team was able to register its first Test win against New Zealand without him being part of the squad. According to him, it just goes on to show the depth that the team possesses and the talent that the youngsters have. 

"I don't think my presence was necessarily important. I am actually happy that they did it without me. Not just me…(others like Tamim as well),” he said. 

“I think what really delighted me was that the notion, particularly in the media, that not many players apart from the four or five senior ones can win games for the team - that will be changed. If they are handed the responsibility, these youngsters will play better,” added the 35-year-old. 

Shakib, who chose to sit out of the Test tour to New Zealand citing familial commitments at the very end moment, said that 2021 was not really good for the team, but he believes that the new year will bring newer opportunities for the team to improve upon.

"We made an unbelievable start to 2022. I am very happy. Credit goes to all the players and coaching staff for playing well under so much pressure and in these conditions. Everyone tried hard. This was always going to be a challenging year after a difficult time in 2021 for us. I hope we can continue in this manner. Bangladesh do not play this well all the time, “ he said. 

Asked if this Test win was indeed game-changing, Shakib, the leading wicket-taker across formats for Bangladesh and one of the top run-getter as well, replied, "Not everything will change after a Test win. But it creates the opportunity for change. I think if we can hold onto this belief, particularly the BCB, we can do well in the World Test Championship.”

Bangladesh, who lead the two-match Test series 1-0, will have an opportunity to win their first-ever series against New Zealand, which could also be their first Test away series win against a top-five Test-playing nation if they either beat or draw the game starting January 09th at Hagley Oval in Christchurch.