Does not matter who likes or not this writer is not at all surprised at Bangladesh cricket icon Shakib Al Hasan (despite his recent prime form) going unsold on day one of IPL 2022 auction. None of the franchise even showed any interest for getting him at base price.
On the other hand, Delhi Capital got Mustafiz at his base price of INR 2 Crores. We have to consider the development in the right context and perspective. 2022 is very tight schedule for most countries. Franchises requires would spend money on utility players preferably potentially young talents available more or less free and fit for the purpose. Shakib despite of his recent prime form was not consistent in the last few IPL and was not regular feature. Moreover, for national assignments he would not be available full time.
We are not sure whether he would feature again on the second day for auction and whether Shakib should accept at whatever price is offered.
Experts observe that IPL and Other T20 Franchise are business operation. These are not actually nursery of international cricket. IPL benefits Indian cricket most and off course players from West Indies, South Africa, Afghanistan and Sri Lanka who get paid handsome remuneration. Without Pakistani players IPL definitely looses some gloss.
On the other hand, talking about Shakib, the value of his presence in Bangladesh team in all formats is essential now. He for Bangladesh is one in three player. His presence assist team management think about an additional batsman or risk with an additional bowler as he covers all bases. Young talents get encouragement in rubbing shoulders with a seasoned professional. Playing for Bangladesh must continue to remain his motivation. He has earned enough and he must continue delivering at his best for his country of origin.
Off course work load management is an important issue. He is more essential for Test team as Bangladesh stays at rock bottom in this format. But Shakib appears reluctant. If we look back in retrospect Shakib played his role as all rounder for KKR in their title winning seasons. But apart from that his performance was not above average. Now at this moment few Indian upcoming players and some emerging players from Sri Lanka and Afghanistan (Hasharanga, Rashid Khan) have greater utility. Hope Shakib and his fan followers would realize the reality.
Shakib in prime form would make a lot of difference for Bangladesh in all formats. Bangladesh would have a very tight schedule of international cricket till the end 2022. He is an integral part of Bangladesh team. He has another 3 years at least in international cricket.
BDST: 1748 HRS, FEB 13, 2022
SMS
