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“Shakib like a brother…”: UAE opener credits Bangladesh legend for BPL heroics

Aakash Saini

Muhammad Waseem credits Shakib Al Hasan [Source: @mufaddal_vohra, @BCBtigers/x]Muhammad Waseem credits Shakib Al Hasan [Source: @mufaddal_vohra, @BCBtigers/x]

UAE opener Muhammad Waseem started off his BPL 2025-26 campaign with a fiery 60-run knock for the Rajshahi Warriors against Noakhali Express on Thursday, January 8. Opening the innings alongside Tanzid Hasan, Muhammad Waseem blasted four boundaries and four huge sixes in his match-winning knock to bag the ‘Player of the Match’ award.

The UAE international has now credited legendary Bangladesh all-rounder and ILT20 teammate Shakib Al Hasan for guiding him with valuable advice.

Muhammad Waseem admits seeking Shakib Al Hasan’s help

While speaking with the reporters during the post-match press conference, legendary UAE opener Muhammad Waseem admitted that he sought Shakib Al Hasan’s help during their time together for the MI Emirates franchise in the recently-concluded ILT20 2025-26 season.

Muhammad Waseem said, “Shakib bhai is like an elder brother to us. I’ve played a lot of cricket with him. He’s a legend - a true legend. Before coming to the BPL, I asked him what I should focus on in Bangladesh. He gave me some advice, and I tried to apply that here. ILT20 helped me a lot. You share the dressing room with top international players and learn every day. I’ve tried to use those lessons here, and it helped me today.”

Muhammad Waseem also expressed his delight in starting off his BPL 2025-26 run with a win and a ‘Player of the Match’ award. He added, “I’m really happy to contribute to the team and to win Player of the Match in my first BPL game. Now the goal is to carry this momentum forward.”

While Muhammad Waseem publicly praised Shakib Al Hasan in front of the Bangladeshi media, the legendary Bangladesh cricketer himself is currently facing charges and court cases in his own country for his political links with the previous government.

Nonetheless, Muhammad Waseem whacked 60 off just 35 balls to help Rajshahi Warriors gun down Noakhali Express’ 151-run total with an over to spare. However, Waseem failed to sustain his form as he was dismissed for just 19 against Chattogram Royals the following day.