Kolkata: Knight Riders iconic all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan recently made a secret two-day visit to Dhaka in a bid to rectify the shortcomings of his batting. The Bangladeshi all-rounder spent a couple of net sessions with his mentor and childhood coach Mohammad Salahuddin. Despite being one of the most consistent performers, Shakib has failed to shine for KKR in this IPL, especially with the bat, where he has been a complete failure. Out of KKR’s 8 outings this season so far, the maverick all-rounder featured in 5 games, and batted on three occasions, but he was hardly impressive in any one of them, making 11, 6 and 3 respectively. The all-rounder looks recharged after spending time with his wife Umme Ahmed Shishir and baby girl Alaina Hasan Abri. In a tete-e-tete with xtratime.in the Knight Riders all rounder spoke about his current form, new Bangladesh sensation Mustafizur Rahman, his new born daughter, Shah Rukh Khan and so on………
Shakib, you went back in Bangladesh to meet your mentor Mohammad Salauddin before the match against Gujarat Lions. How did he motivate you to do well?
It was a confidence boost up for me. Whenever I am low on confidence, I do not hesitate in taking his tips. But most importantly I could spend some time with my family.
Being a key member in Knight Riders, you still have to sit out in the dugout. How frustrating does it get for a sportsman to find himself being left out of the playing eleven?
Obviously it is disappointing. No one enjoys sitting out, but have to accept the fact that only four foreign players can play in the side in IPL. A lot depends on the team combination. At times one had to sit out for a couple of matches. But the important thing is to keep the focus, so that when your turn arrives you do not let down your team.
How are you motivating yourself against a team who do not have a stake in the tournament?
I am not interested in what the situation is with other teams. What is important for us is, it is a very important match for us. We cannot afford any further slip ups.
RPS has three quality spinners in their ranks – the two Ashwin’s and Adam Zampa have all been very impressive. The Aussie leg spinner took 19/6 in one match. Given the nature of Eden wicket, will it be tough for KKR batsman to play the spin trio?
There will not be a difference in the mindset as everyone looks to go for a win. Our batsman will look to score runs against their spinners.
Shakib, you had a brilliant performance both with the bat and ball in the IPL final of 2012. When you look back at that season, how does it feel?
Look, I am someone who does not look back. But yes I still enjoyed the celebrations we had after winning the championship moving around the city in an open bus. The people showed tremendous love and support for us.
What is your opinion about Mustafizur Rahman. You recently took him to Wasim Akram. How impressive has he been in the IPL so far?
He has bowled really well so far. I reckon he is the best international bowler in the shorter format now. Obviously, I had always expected him to do well. I hope he will keep on improving with the passage of time.
Shakib, the birth of your daughter surely must have brought good fortune for you. What role has she played so far in your life?
Yes, she has been my life (looking at the mobile screensaver with his daughter’s face on it). As far as change is concerned, I am still the same. I did not get an opportunity to spend much time with my family as I was busy playing away.
A sad incident took place in Dhaka yesterday. A 16 year old cricketer Babul Sikdar died while playing, after being hit by a wicket by the opponent wicketkeeper. Do such things touch your life?
I do not want to make any comment as I don’t know exactly about the incident.
You are an icon in Bangladesh cricket. What more can we expect from Shakib Al Hasan?
There is no limitation for demand of an individual. Every individual strives to do better in their lives. I also feel the same as I want to achieve more glories for myself and my country.
Shakib,you are a real performer as your team owner in Knight Riders . Do you draw any inspiration from Shah Rukh Khan?
I have always admired his hard work, determination and honesty in life. Shah Rukh is an inspiration for me.