Tamim’s focus on curtailing Shakib’s influence

The Bangabandhu T20 Cup is set to get underway from Tuesday (November 24) and one of the big attractions the start tournament of the tournament will bring is the return of Shakib Al Hasan to competitive cricket following the end of his ban as Shakib's Gemcon Khulna meet Tamim Iqbal-captained Fortune Barishal in the day's second game.

The evening game will get underway under lights at 6:30 PM Bangladesh time and it will be the first time that Shakib steps onto the pitch to play a match since his ban. Tamim said it will be a big day for his national teammate but was aware of the all-rounder's abilities and wanted to curtail his influence on the game.

"I am sure that it will be a big day for him since a year has passed before his return. It's a big day for him and for Bangladesh cricket too as a player of his calibre is returning," Tamim said.

The Barishal captain was however not looking to give his national teammate an inch on his return to action. "I'm certain his fans will be eager to see him. However, as it's a game for me, I will try to ensure he has as little impact as possible on the match (tomorrow).

Tamim however had no doubt that Shakib will become increasingly successful as he starts getting play time. "At the end of the day, I am happy he is returning. I am sure he will go from strength to strength from tomorrow."

Tamim was aware of Khulna's strengths but said his players needed to believe in their abilities. Barishal's Afif Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Irfan Shukkur, Abu Jayed Rahi and Sumon Khan can certainly restate their case in the tournament.

"Certainly they are a strong team on paper," Tamim said about Mahmudullah Riyad-captained Khulna. "The main thing is, whoever is in your team, the biggest thing is to believe. I believe in my players. Maybe you may not find big names, but they are all capable of winning us matches. If we get a good start against them, that would be the best possible thing for us."