Bangladesh’s U-19 World Cup-winning hero Shamim Hossain said he is eager to play and do well in the T20 World Cup due to begin next month in Oman.
Shamim already started individual training to prepare for the big challenge.
On Monday he talked to the reporters at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium exuding high confidence in his ability to perform well and prove the selectors right.
“I’m a bit lucky that I’m getting a chance to represent Bangladesh in the World Cup,” Shamim told the media. “At the same time, it’s a new challenge for me as well. I’m confident that I will deliver well in the World Cup.”
Shamim has been a wonderful batsman and outstanding fielder during his U-19 cricketing years. He carried his zeal to the domestic circuit as well which helped him earn the maiden call to the national team ahead of this year’s Zimbabwe tour.
The left-handed batsman took no time to shine for the Tigers. In his T20I debut, he scored 29 off 13 balls, and in the second, he posted unbeaten 31 off 15 balls which eventually proved to be a match-winning knock.
“I didn’t set any specific target for the World Cup yet, but since it’s my first chance, I will try my best to do well. It’s a big achievement for me to be a part of Bangladesh’s World Cup squad. I have plenty to learn from the senior players of the national team,” he added.
The experience of winning the U-19 World Cup will help in many ways to perform up to the expectation in the World Cup, Shamim said.
“I understand the expectation will be high this time. I will have to play with many world-class players. It’s a big challenge, and I’m upbeat to take this challenge,” Shamim added.
The 21-year-old batsman was unable to continue his good form against Australia in the home series that Bangladesh won 4-1. He also failed to do well in the only match he played against New Zealand at home. On both occasions the wicket was friendly to the bowlers.
“The wickets matter a lot (to do well for the batsmen). I think the wickets will be better in the World Cup (than the wicket of Bangladesh). I believe the senior players of our team will do great things in the World Cup,” he said.
Source: United News of Bangladesh