Shamim targets series win after long-awaited return

Shamim Hossain Patwari believes his match-winning innings in the opening T20 against West Indies was not only "much-needed" for himself but for the team as well.

After spending a year away from the national side, his impactful performance helped Bangladesh to a narrow 7-run victory in St Vincent.

Now, with the series on the line, Shamim is focused on carrying that success forward.

Speaking in a video message released by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), Shamim reflected on his return.

"I came back after a year, and this innings was something I really needed. It feels great. The team needed it as well. I was confident that I could contribute positively," he said.

Shamim's explosive knock of 27 runs off just 13 balls came when Bangladesh were under pressure. Entering the crease in the 15th over with the team at 96 for 5 and the run rate hovering just above six, the 24-year-old delivered a decisive cameo.

His innings, which included one boundary and three sixes, shifted the momentum back in Bangladesh's favour. Alongside Sheikh Mahedi Hasan, Shamim stitched together a crucial 49-run partnership off just 29 balls, lifting the team to a total of 147.

Reflecting on his approach, Shamim admitted the situation demanded quick runs.

"With the kind of wicket it was and the situation when I came to bat, I knew I had to score runs. I felt that if I could score quickly, it would put the team in a good position," he explained.

The importance of that innings was clear as Bangladesh defended the total successfully, winning by 7 runs. It was a performance that highlighted Shamim's ability to make an impact in the lower-middle order, a role the team has struggled to fill consistently in recent years.

For Shamim, the road back to the national team has been challenging. He last featured for Bangladesh during the tour of New Zealand in December 2023, where he managed just 9 runs off 14 balls in his only opportunity.

Prior to that, he had shown promise with knocks of 33 off 25 balls and an unbeaten 7 against Afghanistan in July 2023, followed by a steady 51 off 42 against Ireland earlier in the year. However, his inconsistency and failure to capitalise on opportunities led to his exclusion.

The return, therefore, carried added weight, with Shamim determined to prove his worth. "This innings was very important for me," he reiterated, acknowledging the pressure he faced after a long absence.

Now, with Bangladesh 1-0 up in the three-match series, Shamim has his sights set on helping the team secure the series win in Wednesday's second match, also at the Arnos Vale Stadium.

"Since we've won one match already, we are slightly ahead. The goal is, of course, to win the series. You know how strong West Indies are in T20 cricket, but I'm hopeful we can win the next match and take the series," he added.