The T20 World Cup 2024 witnessed an exhilarating contest at the Arnos Vale Ground in Kingstown, where the Netherlands and Bangladesh are facing each other in all-important clash. This match held significant importance for both teams, each aiming to secure their place in the Super Eight.

Netherlands’ strategy

Choosing to field, the Netherlands aimed to exploit the moisture and overcast conditions to put early pressure on Bangladesh’s batting lineup. Captain Scott Edwards banked on his bowlers, particularly Paul van Meekeren and the young Aryan Dutt, to restrict Bangladesh to a manageable total.

Bangladesh’s batting performance

Bangladesh posted a competitive total of 159 runs. They started shakily, losing Shanto and Litton to Aryan Dutt’s impressive bowling. Tanzid Hasan and Shakib Al Hasan counterattacked, stitching a 48-run partnership. Although Paul van Meekeren broke this stand, Shakib remained a steadfast anchor, finishing unbeaten on 64 off 46 balls.

Aryan Dutt’s Impact

Aryan Dutt, making his tournament debut, was a revelation. The 21-year-old off-spinner struck early, dismissing Shanto and Litton in quick succession, showcasing his talent and justifying his selection. His disciplined bowling kept Bangladesh in check during the powerplay.

Bangladesh’s total

Bangladesh managed to score 54 runs in the last five overs, thanks to Shakib’s masterful batting. Despite early setbacks, they posted 159, a challenging target given the pitch’s variable bounce and assistance for spinners.

Shakib Al Hasan’s innings

Shakib Al Hasan played a captain’s knock, stabilizing Bangladesh’s innings and ensuring they reached a defendable total. His unbeaten 64 off 46 balls was a blend of calculated aggression and sensible batting, highlighting his experience and class.

Legendary critique

Virender Sehwag’s critique on Cricbuzz was blunt, questioning Shakib’s ability to play in the T20 format and suggesting his recent numbers were not up to the mark. Sehwag’s comments added extra pressure on Shakib, making his performance in this match even more significant.

“During the last World Cup, I thought he should no longer be picked for the T20 format. Time for retirement came a long time ago. You are such a senior player, you were the captain of this team. You should actually be ashamed of your recent numbers. You should come forward and announce yourself that enough is enough, I’m retiring from this format,” Sehwag said on Cricbuzz. 

“If you are picked in the World Cup squad for your experience, then show that it was actually worth it. You need to spend some time at the crease at least. You are not Adam Gilchrist or Mathew Hayden. Hooks and pulls are not your strengths You are a Bangladeshi player. You play according to your strength.”

Shakib’s response to critics

Recently, Shakib faced harsh criticism from former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag after a poor performance against South Africa. Sehwag suggested Shakib should retire from T20 cricket, citing his recent poor form. Shakib’s performance against the Netherlands, however, was a powerful rebuttal to these criticisms.

Shakib’s unbeaten 64 was a testament to his skill and mental strength. By anchoring Bangladesh’s innings and ensuring they posted a competitive total, Shakib effectively silenced his critics and reaffirmed his value to the team.