Published on 05:52 PM, June 03, 2019

'We say it but outsiders don’t really take us into account'

Bangladesh's players including Shakib Al Hasan (C) celebrate after victory over South Africa by 21 runs after the 2019 Cricket World Cup group stage match between South Africa and Bangladesh at The Oval in London on June 2, 2019. Photo: AFP

Bangladesh are still considered to be underdogs in major cricket events. Despite making it to the quarterfinal of the 2015 World Cup, the semis of the 2017 Champions Trophy and the Asia Cup 2018 recently, the Tigers still have it all to prove as far as the rest of the world is concerned.

Bangladesh started the 2019 World Cup with a bang, beating a formidable South Africa side yesterday. Shakib was of the opinion that the rest of the World did not quite heed their opinion on Bangladesh's capabilities.

"We have always tried to say it but outsiders don't really take us into account. I think we have a lot to prove. We have started well. I think that we are in a good place, mentally. I think if we can continue in this manner, we can go a long way in the tournament," the all-rounder said in mixed zone at the end of the match.

Shakib was in his usual good mood after the match and spoke of the determination of making a mark in this World Cup. He spoke of doing better in this edition of the World Cup. "Unlike previous World Cups I also don't want to end them in the same manner. We will try to finish it well this time. There's obviously advantage when you start well but we have eight matches remaining, so there'll be a lot to do for the team," he concluded.