Stand-in captain Jaker Ali downplayed his own role after Bangladesh sealed a 3-0 T20 series whitewash over Afghanistan in Mirpur on Sunday. “I did not win the match, it was everyone’s effort,” he told reporters.
Afghanistan, asked to bat first, were restricted to 143 thanks to sharp spells from Nasum Ahmed and Mohammad Saifuddin. In reply, Saif Hassan continued his excellent form, scoring an unbeaten 64 from 38 balls to steer Bangladesh to a comfortable chase.
Jaker, leading in the absence of Litton Das, again failed to make an impact with the bat and faced criticism for his wicketkeeping. He refused to engage with the debate, saying: “I have nothing to say about that.”
Instead, he praised his teammates for their contribution. “I was given responsibility and tried to fulfil it. The credit goes to the players for their batting, bowling and fielding.”
Looking ahead, Jaker said the team’s focus was clear. “The coaching staff are preparing us well. We have six more T20 matches before the World Cup to get ready.”
The three-match ODI series begins on 8 October in the UAE.
