Shakib Al Hasan's Firm Response To Sehwag's 'Retirement Remark' After Match-Winning Performance

Bangladesh's premier all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan didn't mince words when addressing Virender Sehwag's criticism following the team's 25-run victory over the Netherlands in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024.

Recently, India's batting legend launched a harsh critique of Shakib, questioning his ability to perform in the shortest format. Sehwag suggested that Shakib is not suited for T20 cricket.

Shakib faced criticism for his poor performance in the T20 World Cup 2022, where he scored only 44 runs in five innings at a strike rate of 95.65. In the current edition, he managed 8 runs against Sri Lanka and 2 runs against South Africa.

The former Indian opener reminded Shakib that he is not "Matthew Hayden or Adam Gilchrist" and advised him to play to his strengths rather than attempting to hit short-pitched deliveries. Sehwag also stated that Shakib should feel ashamed for not retiring from T20 cricket.

Virender Sehwag bashed Shakib Al Hasan after horror show against South Africa.

"It's not like you are not Hayden or Adam Gilchrist who can play a pull shot of a short ball, you are just a player from Bangladesh. Play according to your standard."pic.twitter.com/4vjOoJcpe3

— Sujeet Suman (@sujeetsuman1991) June 11, 2024

In a video clip circulating on social media, Shakib Al Hasan is seen giving a one-word response to a journalist's question about Sehwag's comments. When asked about Sehwag's remarks, Shakib replied, "Who?"

"A player doesn't play to answer (the critics). His job is to contribute to the team. If he is not able to do that, there will be a lot of talk. I think it's not such a bad thing," Shakib stated.

Shakib Al Hasan, who registered single-digit scores in the first two games, played a match-winning knock against the Netherlands at Arnos Vale Ground, Kingstown, St Vincent. He scored an unbeaten 64 off 46 balls, hitting nine fours and was named Man of the Match.