Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag criticized Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan's strategy during their 197-run chase against India, which resulted in a 50-run defeat in the T20 World Cup Super Eight clash on Saturday.
India, after being asked to bat first, saw Hardik Pandya smash an unbeaten 50 off 27 balls, featuring four fours and three sixes, while Virat Kohli added 37 runs to lead the team to 196/5 in 20 overs.
In their response, Bangladesh stumbled during the middle overs despite a decent start, losing wickets regularly and failing to chase down the target. Shakib was dismissed after scoring 11 off seven balls, attempting to hit Kuldeep Yadav for a boundary.
Kuldeep Yadav took three wickets, while Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh claimed two each, limiting Bangladesh to 146/8 in 20 overs.
“When you have a set batter with you at the crease, at least support him. At least stay out in the middle and spend some time, try to get something out of the match. Instead, only 11 runs were scored off seven deliveries and then he walked back. So, I did not understand that,” Sehwag told Cricbuzz.
The veteran batter also suggested that Shakib should consider retirement to make way for younger players in the team.
“He has so much experience. So, is he not making the most of it or does he simply not care? Or was he thinking that the target is too big and I just scored a six, and now I will score a six off every ball. That’s why I said it the last time itself, he needs to make way for a younger player now,” Sehwag added.
With two losses in the Super Eight matches, Bangladesh are nearly out of the semifinal contention. They will face Afghanistan in their final match on June 25.
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