Shamim Hossain Takes Inspiration from AB de Villiers' Batting Positivity After Bangladesh Level Series

Shamim Hossain, the Bangladesh batter, revealed that he draws inspiration from AB de Villiers' batting and strives to maintain a positive outlook similar to the South African legend. This comes after Bangladesh secured a convincing 83-run victory against Sri Lanka in the second T20I, leveling the three-match series.

Bangladesh displayed a dominant performance on Sunday, posting a competitive 177 for 7 before dismissing Sri Lanka for a mere 93 in 15.2 overs.

Shamim Hossain struck a breezy 48 off 27 in the second T20I © AFP

"Firstly, the victory itself is the most satisfying aspect. With the series now balanced at 1-1, this win held significant importance for us," Shamim told reporters. "We now have an opportunity to clinch the series, and we are hopeful that if we perform well, we will emerge victorious."

The foundation of Bangladesh's total was laid by skipper Litton Das, who, after a period of lackluster performances in limited-overs cricket, played a brilliant innings of 76 off 50 balls, including five sixes. Litton and Towhid Hridoy forged a crucial 69-run partnership for the fifth wicket after Bangladesh had slumped to 78/4.

Regarding the partnership, Shamim commented: "Litton's batting was exceptional. It proved to be a turning point, as a strong start is essential. His innings enabled us to finish strongly later on." He added, "Sometimes, a slight slowdown is necessary. At that juncture, a solid partnership was crucial, knowing we had strong batters to come. We can always compensate later if we have wickets in hand. The partnership between Litton and Hridoy was therefore vital."

Shamim himself made a valuable contribution in the latter stages of the innings, scoring a brisk 48 off 27 balls at No. 6. The batter expressed satisfaction with his current position and acknowledged AB de Villiers as a source of inspiration.

"I am comfortable with my batting position. I feel very confident batting where I am right now," Shamim stated. "My plan is always to maintain a positive mindset when I go out to bat. Someone needs to take risks, and I am willing to take that responsibility for the team."

He further elaborated, "I admire AB de Villiers' batting and consistently strive to maintain a positive attitude like him. In T20 cricket, positivity is key, and I believe that if I stay positive, I will perform well."