Magura to Worcester

November 19, 2009

There comes a time in every cricketer’s life when he can do no wrong. Everything goes right to the point that it seems that the heavens themselves have aligned to thrust that individual to the zenith of his achievements.

For better or worse, Shakib Al Hasan’s time is now.

The lad from Magura yesterday became the first ever Bangladeshi to sign for a county cricket club after sealing a deal which will see him become Worcestershire’s overseas representative next season.

It puts the icing on the cake in what has been an altogether remarkable year for Shakib. Not only has he captained Bangladesh to successes at home but also to unprecedented victories in Zimbabwe and West Indies. He cemented his position as the world’s best ODI all-rounder and was named by Wisden Cricketer magazine as their Player of the Year 2009.

Such befitting accolades have now seen Worcestershire, once the haven of such greats like Imran Khan and Kapil Dev, splash the cash on Bangladesh’s first global star.

Shakib’s story is all the more remarkable given that it has happened in less than four years into his international career.

And what sets the left-hander apart from his peers is the toughness in his character be it on or off the field. The world cricket lovers have already noticed the young man’s on field toughness, even as a stand-in captain, and one can get an impression of his off the field demeanour by the way he has kept even his best news secret.

The news was made public yesterday when Worcestershire CCC said in a press note that they are delighted to announce the signing of the world’s number one all- rounder, who will fulfil the County’s overseas slot upon completion of the Bangladesh tour to England in mid July 2010.

But Shakib had already completed all formalities nearly a week ago.

“I signed the contract paper seven days back but believe me, my family is yet to get the news. It’s not as if I intentionally kept the news secret. Actually my character is like that. I never dreamt of anything rather I always believe things will come to me naturally and I just make sure that I do my duty properly,” said a smiling Shakib while talking to the Daily Star last evening.

And he took it further when he said: “Now things became tough in my life as I also want to complete my graduation even amidst a busy cricket schedule. But I am confident that I can do everything. I believe education is very important for anybody no matter how good he is in other fields.”

With the latest success, Shakib was excited as he has followed county cricket from the very beginning of his career and the main reason was that his most beloved cricketers played in the competition.

“I am delighted to be joining Worcestershire in 2010. I followed county cricket as a young player growing up and the opportunity to fulfil one of my ambitions by playing as an overseas player in England is one that excites me greatly. I was a fan of the Pakistan cricket team and most of the Pakistan greats like Wasim Akram played county cricket,” he said adding that his agent started the negotiation during ICC Twenty20 World Cup in England.

Shakib also said that his joining the county cricket league has opened a window for the Bangladeshi cricketers.

“I consider it a huge honour to be the first Bangladeshi overseas player in county cricket and can’t wait to give my all for the club on the field. I believe it’s opened a window for our cricketers. Now I have to prove myself to give them the impression that our cricketers are capable of playing this kind of tournament,” he observed.

“Particularly as an all-rounder I am thrilled and inspired to be joining the team once graced by Ian Botham, Imran Khan and Kapil Dev. It is a matter of great pride for me to be associated with a club that has an overwhelming history and has been home to so many legendary cricketers. For the devoted fans of Worcestershire I hope to bring joy and success and I eagerly look forward to my time at the county,” he promised.

The obvious question was what is next?

“I don’t know because I have never set any target but I would be happy if I could achieve the 40 average both in one-day and Test.”

Magura to Worcester

Comments