Shakib Al Hasan first Bangladeshi overseas player in county cricket
BANGALDESH captain Shakib Al Hasan has said he has fulfilled a lifetime ambition of playing in England after he was snapped up by Worcestershire County Cricket Club.
The 22-year-old becomes the first Bangladesh player to sign for a county cricket side.
He will join up with his new team mates next summer after Bangladesh complete their tour of England in July.
Hasan, who currently tops the ICC one-day all-rounders ranking list, said he was excited about his forthcoming stint in English cricket.
“I followed county cricket as a young player growing up and the opportunity to fulfil one of my ambitions by playing as an overseas player in England is one that excites me greatly,” he said.
“I consider it a huge honour to be the first Bangladeshi overseas player in county cricket and can’t wait to give my all for the club on the field.
“County cricket has traditionally been the stage for the world’s best players and it is a matter of great pride for me to be associated with a club that has an overwhelming history and had been home to so many legendary cricketers. Particularly as an all-rounder, I am thrilled and inspired to be joining the team once graced by Ian Botham, Imran Khan and Kapil Dev.”
“County cricket has traditionally been the stage for the world’s best players and it is a matter of great pride for me to be associated with a club that has an overwhelming history and had been home to so many legendary cricketers. Particularly as an all-rounder, I am thrilled and inspired to be joining the team once graced by Ian Botham, Imran Khan and Kapil Dev.”
Steve Rhodes, Director of Cricket at Worcestershire said the club had kept tabs on the player and were confident he would be a valuable addition to the team next season.
“I have been following his progress for some time and it is clear to me that he is a very good player,” he said.
“His current ICC rankings prove this and I know he is hungry for success. His all round skills will be a great boost to our young team for the business end of the season.”
