ICC world Cup 2019 | Anyone can beat anyone on their day, believes Shakib Al Hasan

Currently holding the top spot in the ICC ODI rankings for all-rounders, Shakib Al Hasan refused to underestimate his team, stating that just because some teams look stronger on paper does not mean the world should declare them the champions already.

“India and England are obviously favourites, but that doesn’t get you the crown. You need to do the hard yards to win a tournament like the World Cup. Australia have been doing well recently and West Indies have peaked at the right time. To be honest, all the teams look like they are ready for a fight. Depends who on that day does well,” Shakib said, reported IANS.

With a rise in the level of performances in ICC tournaments over the past decade, Bangladesh have finally reached the point where they are in the race to be the champions instead of just being satisfied with a good run in the tournament that ends without glory.

“This time I think we have a genuine chance of winning the tournament, but keeping the format of the tournament in mind, we must look to play well consistently. If we can do that, we can definitely look at qualifying for the knockouts and take it forward from there. I am confident that we will do well this time,” he quoted.

With the batsman favouring conditions in England pretty much the word in everyone’s mouth, Shakib said that as long as they ironed out the wrinkles in the bowling department, they could upset any opposition if they came to their own.

“I think we have a very good side, I am a little worried about the bowling, both new ball and the death. But I am very much optimistic that we can go the whole length. We have experience, have guys who have played 3 or 4 World Cups. It is a good thing as we know what we need to do. Need to get the momentum early on. I am confident. Anyone can beat anyone on their day. Consistency is an important factor to go all the way,” he concluded.