Shakib: Draws aren't enough for us anymore

Cricket365
October 18, 2013

Bangladesh all-rounder and star player Shakib-al-Hasan says they are no longer content with drawing Test matches and being the whipping boys of Test cricket, but are seriously looking to beat New Zealand in the second match.

The first Test in Chittagong ended in a draw, and Shakib says the days of being happy just to complete five days are long gone, and his side will be looking to win the second Test in Dhaka next week.

The world's number one Test all-rounder, taking the title over from Jacques Kallis, said: "We are looking to win the series. We have a major opportunity, so we have every reason to give it our best.

"When I started six years ago, our goal was to play five days. Then it was to draw Test matches. Now we go out to win. We have been progressing as a team all along. Everything takes time. This team has been playing together for quite some time, so we have more confidence.

"When there are four or five performers in a team, the rest of the players then want to do well. So within everyone, there is a challenge to perform. I think it is major positive for the Bangladesh team."

The 26-year-old made his Tigers debut as a teenager and aside from injuries in recent years has been a constant in the side, and has been top of the rankings a few times.

While he doesn't like to compare himself with the likes of Kallis, he still finds it motivational to be in such company, adding: "It is easy to motivate myself when I look at the rankings.

"My battle is with top cricketers, but I wouldn't compare myself with anyone. Everyone wants to contribute to the team's cause. I don't think any cricketer keeps an eye on the rankings but it does feel good to be at the top."