Shakib ruined the relationship with Sri Lanka for the sake of the team

With a victory over Sri Lanka in a 'timed out' match at the 2023 India World Cup, Bangladesh secured their spot in the 2025 Champions Trophy. Winning by 3 wickets, Bangladesh kept their hopes alive for the next Champions Trophy. This World Cup match already etched its name in cricket history due to a rare dismissal, orchestrated by Shakib Al Hasan. As a captain, Shakib did what was necessary to defeat the opponent, focusing on the country's and team's interests rather than the ethics of the situation.

In recent times, the rivalry between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka has brought a unique excitement, starting from the 'Nagin Dance' in the Nidahas Trophy. From the Nagin Dance to the timed out incident, the battles within the battles added extra drama to the game. The 'timed out' dismissal of Angelo Mathews in the 2023 ODI World Cup was within the rules, and the Bangladesh team did nothing against the regulations.

On Bongo BD's show 'Shakib Al Hasan, World Cup Special,' Shakib reiterated his stance:

"After the incident (timing out Mathews), many in Bangladesh said it was outside the spirit (of the game). I say, if it hadn't happened in this match, Bangladesh wouldn't be playing in the Champions Trophy. And at that point, people talk about principles. In crucial times, principles are rarely discussed in Bangladesh. We believe in showing principles."

"Mashallah, our biggest rivalry has formed with Sri Lanka. I think it started from there. Before that, the Sri Lankans were very friendly with us, and our relationship was very sweet. They always supported us, their fans. But after that, things have changed."

In this World Cup, Bangladesh played their opening match against Sri Lanka. Chasing a target of 125 in 120 balls, it seemed an easy win. However, the Bangladesh team had to work hard for this seemingly easy victory. The entire match was filled with fierce competition.