Bangladesh’s talismanic all-rounder, Shakib al Hasan, has delivered severe blows to the latest norms issued by the International Cricket Council (ICC), regarding the guidelines for the resumption of international cricket, post COVID-19 crisis.
Shakib is currently serving his ban period, for failing to report after being approached by bookies. The marquee all-rounder for the Tigers questioned ICC whether or not batsmen at either end are allowed to meet after the completion of overs.
Usually, batsmen meet after each over to discuss strategies for the upcoming over or two. Shakib cited out given the range of COVID-19 virus transmission; the batsmen would not be able to talk to each other, following distancing norms.
“Now we are hearing that it (COVID-19 virus) might spread around 12 feet, not just three or six. So does it mean the two batsmen can’t meet at the end of the over?” Shakib was quoted by a Bangladesh daily.
Also, with spinners in action, wicketkeepers and close-in fielders generally are within the proximity of the batsmen.
Shakib brought out several loopholes within the new norms issued by ICC through some rational questions.
“They will stand at their ends? Won’t there be any crowd in the stadium? Will the wicket-keeper stand afar? What would happen to close-in fielders? These things require discussions,” further asked the all-rounder.
Many, including Pakistan head coach Misbah-ul-Haq, believed that the apex cricketing body should not take action in haste for the resumption of international cricket.
“I don’t think they (ICC) will take a chance before they are very sure. Whatever it is, life comes first. I am sure they will think of safety first,” Shakib affirmed.
Further, the 33-year old was counting days for the pandemic situation as well as his ban period to get over.
Also, one of the highest run-scorers as well as wicket-takers for Bangladesh in international cricket appeared to be in a melancholic mood, not to be able to play cricket, even it resumes the next day.
“I am counting days in two ways. One, when will corona be over, and the other, when will my suspension end. I am going through a tough time. Although there’s no cricket going on anywhere, I know that if it starts tomorrow, I won’t be able to play cricket,” Shakib concluded.
