Tuesday, 17 March 2015

Shakib calls for 'fearless cricket' against India

Bangladesh's star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan wants them to play 'fearless cricket' against India in their upcoming quarterfinal clash in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015. Bangladesh's famous win against India in the 2007 World Cup was evoked when Shakib talked about their approach against defending champions India, who are yet to lose a game in this edition.
"I think we played fearless cricket (when Bangladesh beat India eight years ago) and we all want to play that brand of cricket that we played," Shakib told a media conference.
"And, so far in this World Cup, I think we're doing it. If we do exactly what we did against England or New Zealand, I think we'll have a very good game.
"It depends on the day, we need to start well. Whatever we do and if we keep doing that and we keep the momentum in our favour then anything is possible," he said.
Shakib was also respectful of the Indian team and the form that they have shown in the tournament so far but stressed that Bangladesh will be ready for the tough clash in the knockouts. Shakib was also pragmatic about the difference in strengths between the two teams and admitted that India was stronger but placed enough faith in his team to overcome the challenge.
"India have a very good team, they are the defending world champions, they've got some world class players but we're doing well in this World Cup, our confidence is high enough and we're up for the match," Shakib said.
"Obviously, on pen and paper, India is a better team than Bangladesh, no-one has any doubt about it.But on the day it's a one-off game and if we have a good day and they have a bad day, you never know," he added.
Bangladesh have been backed tremendously by their fans - both travelling and those back home - but Shakib remained unfazed about the pressure of growing expectations. This will be Bangladesh's maiden appearance in a World Cup knockout game and Shakib talked about the importance of concentrating on the game.
"In the subcontinent, people always expect a lot from you and because we're playing well there is some expectation," Shakib said.
"But we need to focus on the game and how well we can play the game, that's the key thing.
"And if we do that I think the result will take care of itself. It doesn't matter, win or lose, if we play our best cricket, that's the key thing."

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