'It Could Be A One-Sided Game Without Shakib': India Legend Speaks

image-lnwtgyg1Shakib got injured earlier in the tournament [AP Photo]

Aakash Chopra expressed concerns over the injury struggles of Shakib Al Hasan, insisting Thursday's (October 19) ICC World Cup 2023 league stage encounter against India could become "one-sided"  without the premier Bangladeshi allrounder and his team's inspirational skipper.

Chopra based his assessment on Shakib's heavy influence on Bangladesh's fortunes as not just a streetsmart left-arm spinner in limited-overs cricket but also a key middle-order batter for a side with a vulnerable top-order.

The former India opener believes Shakib is a must if Bangladesh are to compete with the mighty tournament hosts, who have bullied Australia, Afghanistan and Pakistan in the competition so far and stand comfortably in the top rung of the World Cup points table. 

While Shakib did undergo an extensive net session with the bat two days prior to the mid-week India clash, the team management awaits formal clearance from the physio and medical staff on his quad tear before making a final decision on his participation. 

Chopra Underlines Shakib's Importance 

"Shakib Al Hasan's fitness is concerning," Chopra said in a video shared on his YouTube channel. "It's not sure whether he will be available for this match or not. If he is unavailable, the problems will become grave because Shakib Al Hasan is this team's life."

According to a report by Cricbuzz, Shakib underwent a lengthy 45-minute session batting in the nets on Tuesday. After initially struggling for timing and flow at the crease, the left-hander found his "groove" against both pacers and seamers. 

The allrounder didn't bowl, but most importantly ended his practice drill without feeling any pain or fatigue that could've aggravated the quad injury, which raised the hopes of the Bangladesh team management and fans. 

"They need his bowling. India's numbers are not that good against left-arm spin," Chopra said. "They need his runs and captaincy. Shakib's availability might actually be the deal clincher. If Shakib isn't there, it could become a hugely one-sided encounter."

Shakib hurt his quadriceps during the league game in Chennai against New Zealand after playing a critical knock of 40 off 51 deliveries and coming up with a steady spell of 1/54 off his 10-over quota.