Bangladeshi cricketer Shamim Hossain has credited South African legend AB de Villiers for inspiring a significant change in his batting technique. During a High Performance Unit tour in Australia, Shamim studied de Villiers’ batting videos on YouTube, focusing particularly on his elbow position. This observation led Shamim to adopt a higher backlift, which he believes has enhanced his ability to play shots more effectively around the wicket.
Shamim implemented this adjustment during the T20I series against the West Indies, contributing to Bangladesh’s series victory. He noted that the higher backlift helps him maintain a straight elbow, facilitating better shot execution. Shamim stated, “High backlift seems to be comfortable and that’s why I opted for it as it helps me to keep my elbow straight and it was inspired from AB de Villiers.”
Previously known for favoring leg-side shots and employing scoops and sweeps, Shamim’s revised technique has enabled him to play more confidently in front of the wicket. He emphasized that he doesn’t concern himself with being labeled a one-dimensional batter, asserting that he has proven his capability to play shots all around the ground. Shamim also mentioned that he underwent purpose-driven training during his time away from the national squad, focusing on improving his off-side play.
This technical refinement has been particularly beneficial in his role as a finisher in T20 cricket, where he often has limited time to make an impact. Shamim expressed readiness to bat in any position required by the team and is aiming to perform well in the Bangladesh Premier League to bolster his prospects for selection in upcoming tournaments.
Shamim’s journey reflects his dedication to continuous improvement and adaptability, drawing inspiration from one of the modern game’s greats to enhance his own performance on the international stage.
Shamim Hossain’s T20 and ODI Career
T20I Career
- Debut: July 23, 2021, against Zimbabwe.
- Role: Middle-order batsman and occasional bowler.
- Performance:
- Matches: 23
- Runs: 289
- Batting Average: ~15.21
- Strike Rate: ~112.88
- Half-centuries: 1
- Best Score: 51*
- Wickets: 2
- Bowling Economy: 6.50
Shamim has been used primarily as a finisher in T20Is, coming in during the later stages of the innings to accelerate the scoring rate. His ability to play innovative shots and his athletic fielding make him a valuable asset in the shortest format.
ODI Career
- Debut: July 10, 2023, against Afghanistan.
- Role: Middle-order batsman.
- Performance:
- Matches: 6
- Runs: 111
- Batting Average: ~18.50
- Strike Rate: ~78.72
- Best Score: 45
Shamim is still finding his footing in ODIs, adapting his aggressive T20 style to the longer format. He has shown glimpses of his potential but is working on consistency to establish himself as a reliable middle-order option.
Strengths:
- Dynamic Finishing: Particularly effective in T20 cricket for quick scoring in the death overs.
- Adaptability: Works on refining his technique and playing all-around the ground.
- Fielding Excellence: An agile and reliable fielder, contributing to team efforts beyond just batting and bowling.
Shamim’s career is in its early stages, and he has significant room to grow, especially in ODIs, where he can develop into a dependable middle-order batsman.
Shamim Hossain’s Best Performances
T20I: 51 Against Zimbabwe (2021)*
- Match: 3rd T20I, Harare Sports Club, July 25, 2021.
- Performance:
- Runs: 51* (31 balls).
- Strike Rate: 164.51.
- Boundaries: 6 fours and 2 sixes.
- Context:
- Shamim came in under pressure during a chase of 193 runs. His unbeaten half-century displayed maturity and composure, guiding Bangladesh to a thrilling 5-wicket victory.
- His innovative stroke play and ability to target gaps were key highlights, earning him widespread praise.
ODI: 45 Against Afghanistan (2023)
- Match: 2nd ODI, Chattogram, July 8, 2023.
- Performance:
- Runs: 45 (48 balls).
- Boundaries: 3 fours and 1 six.
- Context:
- Shamim provided crucial middle-order resistance in a challenging chase. Though Bangladesh fell short, his innings demonstrated his ability to adapt to the ODI format and handle pressure.
Key Takeaways:
- T20 Highlight: His knock against Zimbabwe stands out as his best T20I performance due to its importance in a successful chase.
- ODI Highlight: His 45 against Afghanistan showcased his potential to stabilize and anchor innings in ODIs.
These matches underline Shamim’s ability to contribute under pressure, making him a promising prospect for Bangladesh cricket.
Shamim Hossain is a professional cricketer from Bangladesh known for his aggressive batting style and versatility in the shorter formats of the game. Born on September 2, 2000, in Chandpur, Bangladesh, he is a left-handed middle-order batsman and a right-arm off-break bowler. Shamim has been recognized for his potential to become a finisher in limited-overs cricket, particularly in T20 internationals.
Career Highlights:
- Domestic Cricket: Shamim plays domestic cricket for Rajshahi Division and has been a standout performer in Bangladesh’s domestic T20 competitions.
- International Debut: He made his T20I debut for Bangladesh on July 23, 2021, against Zimbabwe.
- Playing Style: Shamim is known for his ability to score quickly and play innovative shots, often targeting gaps and utilizing the field effectively. His fielding skills add to his value as an all-round cricketer.
Inspirations and Adjustments:
Shamim recently credited South African cricket legend AB de Villiers for inspiring a change in his batting technique. By studying de Villiers’ high backlift and elbow position, Shamim adapted his approach to improve his shot-making around the wicket.
Key Traits:
- Aggressive Batting: As a middle-order batsman, Shamim thrives under pressure, often stepping up during challenging situations.
- Finishing Role: He has been groomed for the role of a finisher in T20 cricket, focusing on contributing quick runs in the death overs.
- Adaptability: Shamim’s ability to adjust his technique and continuously improve demonstrates his commitment to excelling on the international stage.
Shamim’s progress as a young cricketer makes him an exciting talent to watch, with the potential to play a significant role in the future of Bangladesh cricket.