Rediscovering Joy in Cricket
Monty Desai, the former Rajasthan Royals coach now leading Atlanta Fire, made an astute observation during a team huddle after their recent victory in the Minor League Cricket (MiLC). He noted, “Your inner child has come out,” addressing Shakib Al Hasan. This was unexpected, as Shakib is known for his serious demeanor and intense competitiveness.
A Different Side of Shakib
In the United States, surrounded by his Fire teammates, glimpses of a more relaxed Shakib emerged, contrasting his image as Bangladesh’s formidable cricket star. According to teammate Sagar Patel, “He’s always laughing! He seemed to genuinely enjoy playing with us, making jokes and embracing the sport for the love of the game.”
Finding Simplicity in America
Shakib, who had previously faced immense public scrutiny and expectations in Bangladesh, found solace in the simplicity of playing cricket again. “I really enjoyed it,” he shared, reminiscing about reconnecting with local players and reliving the joys of his youth. In the absence of press demands and political drama, he could focus solely on the game.
Humility and Team Spirit
Shakib’s humility was evident as he integrated into the Fire team, choosing modest accommodations and sharing meals with teammates. Rather than adopting a “star player” demeanor, he demonstrated a strong work ethic, opting for challenging fielding positions despite being a seasoned player.
Dedication Despite Limitations
Struggling with blurry vision, Shakib faced challenges at 37, yet his dedication remained unwavering. Ahead of games, he would spend considerable time in the nets, refining his techniques. Despite limited opportunities in matches, he committed more time to practice, highlighting his passion.
Engaging with Fans
Shakib’s engagement extended beyond the field, as he readily interacted with young fans seeking autographs and photos. He built rapport with them, seldom exhibiting any sense of celebrity aloofness, which surprised many of his teammates who had preconceptions about him.
Perception and Identity
While certain perceptions of Shakib exist, especially regarding his commercial ventures and relationship with money, his recent actions portray a different narrative. Committing to play in the MiLC for significantly less than his usual earnings reflects his character. Shakib continues to have a complex relationship with public opinion, driven by both admiration and criticism. His hope is to eventually retire from cricket back home, aiming for a unifying farewell that transcends political divides.
