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Xtra Time Web Desk: Bangladesh’s all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan caught attention with a peculiar habit during Day 2 of the first Test against India at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Coming in to bat with Bangladesh struggling at 36/4, Shakib started his innings with some quick boundaries. However, what caught the eye was his unique practice of biting the string of his helmet while facing the Indian bowlers.

The moment quickly went viral on social media, leaving fans curious about the reason behind his routine. Former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik provided clarity on air, revealing that Shakib’s former teammate, Tamim Iqbal, had explained the reason. According to Tamim, Shakib uses this technique to prevent his head from falling towards the leg side, helping him maintain a straight posture while batting.

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Shakib Al Hasan is leaving no stone unturned in his efforts to address his eye issues. ✅

Today he was (still) spotted biting down on a black strap while batting.#INDvsBAN #ShakibAlHasan pic.twitter.com/jLf1zS2ljI

— Washikur Rahman Simanto (@WashikurRahma75) September 20, 2024

Earlier this year, Shakib consulted an ophthalmologist in London due to vision issues. His helmet-string routine is not the first time he has employed such unusual techniques. During the Global T20 Canada, Shakib was seen biting his jersey while batting.

Shakib is not the only Bangladeshi cricketer with a distinctive approach. Opener Shadman Islam previously mentioned that his coach had made him wear a cloth around his neck during practice to keep his head straight while facing spinners.

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Despite Shakib’s efforts, his innings came to an unfortunate end as he was dismissed for 32 (64) while attempting a reverse sweep against Ravindra Jadeja. The ball deflected off his shoe and was caught by Rishabh Pant, leaving Bangladesh in deep trouble at 92/7.

Bangladesh was eventually bowled out for 149, with Jasprit Bumrah taking 4/50. India secured a significant first-innings lead of 227 runs.