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'We Still Have Five Matches…': Shakib Al Hasan Hopeful of Qualifying for the Semis

image-lo3z6mzaShakib will return for the clash against South Africa [AP Photo]

Despite securing victory in only one game so far in the ongoing World Cup, Bangladesh's skipper, Shakib Al Hasan, remains hopeful of a turnaround, believing his team can still qualify for the semi-finals.

The Bangla Tigers have suffered three defeats in four World Cup matches, including a seven-wicket loss to India in Pune. The top four teams at the end of the round-robin phase involving the ten competing teams will progress to the knockout stages. Their next challenge is a formidable South African side.

In contrast, South Africa approaches the match against Bangladesh following an emphatic 229-run win over England, which rejuvenated their campaign after a shocking loss to the Netherlands.

Shakib's take on top-4 chances

In a press conference before the match, a fit-again Shakib expressed optimism about their chances and the importance of defeating South Africa to regain momentum.

"South Africa has won three out of their four matches, putting them in a favorable position. However, that doesn't mean it's all over for us. We still have five matches left, and tomorrow, we have a significant game against South Africa. If we can secure a victory in that match, we will regain our momentum and find ourselves in a very promising position,"  Shakib told reporters in Mumbai.

He noted that despite their limited number of wins, their current position in the points table is more favorable than it could have been, with the outcomes of other teams' matches currently working in their favor. Shakib stressed that it's now their responsibility to control their destiny.

“Even though we haven’t won many games, our position in the points table is not as bad as it could be. The outcomes of other teams’ matches are favouring us at the moment. However, now, it’s our responsibility to take control of our destiny,”  he added.

Time running out for Shakib and Co.

While Bangladesh may not appear particularly menacing in this World Cup, their past record against South Africa, especially in previous World Cups, provides them with a favorable chance in the upcoming contest.

Three of South Africa's six ODI defeats to Bangladesh have occurred in the last four years, including a memorable victory by 21 runs during the 2019 World Cup.