Shakib hopes KKR takes away positives

THE ALLROUNDER WILL LEAVE ON BANGALDESH DUTY ON THURSDAY OR FRIDAY MEANING THE MATCH VS RPS COULD BE HIS LAST CHANCE TO MAKE IMPACT.

Shakib Al Hasan hasn’t had much of a chance in IPL 10 largely because Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) Indian spinners have done well, the character of the Eden wicket has changed and the curse of being an import means limited opportunities anyway. The Bangladesh all-rounder will leave on international duty on Thursday or Friday meaning the match against Rising Pune Super Giant (RPSG) could be his last chance to make an impact in this edition.

“As professional cricketers we are aware that opportunities will be limited. But whoever isn’t playing is also ready. I am taking this positively,” said Shakib during a promotional here on Tuesday. “I could not contribute much for team this time. But as a team we are doing well. That’s important. First your team must do well. No scope for complaining. Hope we will be champions again although I won’t be here.

That KKR convincingly beat Rising Pune Super Giant (RPSG) should help them approach Wednesday’s game in a positive frame of mind, said Shakib.

“We are in a good position. The whole season, we have played dominating cricket. We did well against them (RPSG) a few days ago. In IPL, every team is competitive. There’s not much of a difference between top and bottom placed teams. We will lose occasionally but I have full faith in our team to do well.”

Shakib said the way Gautam Gambhir has led KKR has been exceptional.

“The way he manages the team is exceptional. It is not easy to captain in franchise cricket. Look at his results: almost every year we have qualifed for the playoffs. Not many teams have been able to maintain that,” he said.