Mashrafe Mortaza has lambasted the critics for their jealousy towards Shakib Al Hasan ahead of the World Cup 2023. The skipper was absent in Bangladesh’s warm-up match against Dasun Shanaka at the Barsapara Stadium due to an injury he reportedly sustained while playing golf.
As per the reports, Shakib may also miss the Tigers’ opening match against Afghanistan on October 7. In Shakib’s absence, Mehidy Hasan Miraz led Bangladesh in the practice match against Sri Lanka but the veteran is expected to be fit for the game against defending champions England on the 10th of October.
Taking his Facebook account, Former Bangladesh skipper Mashrafe Mortaza slammed the critics over the talks regarding Shakib Al Hasan’s availability for the tournament after the injury and called them mentally sick.
“Shakib was injured, so he didn’t play (1st warm-up), may he recover soon, but I’ve seen many writing or saying that since he’s injured whether he’ll play or not! Many wrote that he should be excluded from the team. Is this even a matter? What kind of mental sickness is this?
“Which generation are we seeing, what kind of thoughts are they growing up with? What will they achieve in life by growing so much jealousy in their minds?” Mashrafe Mortaza said.
The 36-year-old is one of the best all-rounders in white-ball cricketers with his wealth of experience going into the game. The left-handed all-rounder has an ample amount of experience playing for the team over the years and would be crucial for the team in the ODI World Cup.
They Are Bearers Of Our Own World Cup Dream – Mashrafe Mortaza
Mashrafe Mortaza urged everyone to support the Bangladesh side going into the ODI World Cup and feels that people should back their team in the marquee event, as the players will require the support of the fans to perform well for the country in the mega event.
“Is this a team of an individual or of a country? Not only Shakib, but all of them are our representatives. They are bearers of our own World Cup dream.”
“The favourite cricketer of some people may not be there, or may not perform. But the team is ours, and that should be remembered. To be with the World Cup team and to give them the belief is most important now,” Mashrafe Mortaza added.
Bangladesh will play against England on October 2 before moving to Dharamshala for the tournament opener against Afghanistan on October 7. Shakib Al Hasan-led side will look to utilize their experience to do well in the ODI World Cup.
