• Home
  • Who Said What
  • He Had The Ability Shakib On Mehidy Hasan Mirazs Heroics Against Afghanistan

'He Had The Ability..,' Shakib On Mehidy Hasan Miraz's Heroics Against Afghanistan

image-lm3s3t7wMehidy Hasan in action against Afghanistan in Asia Cup 2023 (AP)

Mehidy Hasan and Najmul Hossain Shanto bludgeoned alluring hundreds for Bangladesh in their must-win Asia Cup 2023 match against Afghanistan. The former even walked away with a ‘Player of the Match’ award, as he also claimed a wicket in Afghanistan’s run-chase with his off-breaks.

After Bangladesh’s emphatic 89-run win, captain Shakib Al Hasan praised Mehidy Hasan for his blistering ton at the top of the order. The legendary all-rounder also explained his surprise decision of promoting Hasan as one of the openers in the innings.

Shakib says Mehidy has ability to excel at the top

Mehidy Hasan, who usually bats at number six or below for Bangladesh in ODIs, received a surprise call-up to open the innings for his country in their must-win Group B game against Afghanistan.

After forming a 60-run opening stand with partner Mohammad Naim, Hasan added 196 runs together with Najmul Hossain Shanto for the third wicket before finger cramps forced him to retire hurt himself.

Watch: Highlights from Mehidy Hasan Miraz's innings

Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan hailed the 25-year-old centurion for making full use of his opportunity as an opener. The legendary all-rounder said:

“Mehidy Hasan  Miraz got his chance up the order and proved himself, we always knew he had the ability.”

Shakib also praised his team for their all-round efforts against Afghanistan, and defended his decision to bat first in Lahore.

“We played very well all-round. It wasn't easy for the fielders to play 50 overs and come and bat, so we were really lucky to win the toss. We executed our plans really well, the fast bowlers especially bowled their heart out. This wasn't an easy wicket to bowl on.”

In the meantime, Bangladesh have qualified for the Super Four round of the 2023 Asia Cup, thus becoming the second side this tournament after Pakistan and the first from Group B to do so.