Shakib’s World Cup Stint Cut Short by Injury
Shakib Al Hasan’s Unfortunate Exit
In a twist that cricket often reserves for its most compelling narratives, Bangladesh’s talismanic captain, Shakib Al Hasan, finds his World Cup journey curtailed, not by an opponent, but by an unyielding injury to his left index finger.
Injury Strikes During Crucial Match
The incident unfolded amidst a valiant 82-run stand against Sri Lanka, a testament to the grit inherent in Shakib’s game. Yet, the blow that marred his finger also brought a premature end to his campaign, sending ripples of concern through the Bangladesh camp.
Shakib Al Hasan has been ruled out of Bangladesh's last match at the 2023 World Cup against Australia after breaking his finger against Sri Lanka yesterday.#CWC2023 pic.twitter.com/lovjI4yPkb
— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) November 7, 2023
Battling On Despite the Blow
The left-hander’s resilience shone brightly as he braved the innings with painkillers and taping, a decision underscored by the team’s physio, Bayjedul Islam Khan. “Shakib was struck on his left index finger early in his innings but continued to bat,” Bayjedul stated. “He underwent an emergency X-ray in Delhi after the game, which confirmed the fracture on the left PIP joint.”
Dramatic Day, Uncertain Recovery
Only a day prior, Shakib had led a charge that saw Angelo Mathews being the first batter to be dismissed timed out in international cricket. Reflecting on the intensity, Shakib remarked, “I felt like I was at a war out on the field.” Now, with recovery estimated at three to four weeks, he heads home for rehabilitation, leaving behind a World Cup that saw flashes of brilliance but ultimately, an unfulfilled quest.
Bangladesh’s hopes for the Champions Trophy 2025 still hang in the balance, as they aim for a top-eight finish. As for Shakib, his World Cup has been a poignant mix of personal highs and the collective low of an early exit.
