Currently distanced from the national setup due to ongoing controversies, Shakib is seen only occasionally in franchise leagues. Now, he’s joined the Global Super League (GSL) for the very first time, stepping in as a replacement for South African spinner Keshav Maharaj. And in his debut match, Shakib made an immediate impact looking every bit like the top-ranked all-rounder the world once knew.
The second edition of the GSL kicked off on Friday, and Shakib starred in the tournament opener. Playing for Dubai Capitals, he produced an all-round performance that led his team to a 22-run win over Central Districts.
Batting first after losing the toss, Dubai Capitals posted 165/7 in 20 overs. Shakib top-scored for the team with an unbeaten 58 off 37 balls.
Earlier in the innings, Afghan opener Sediqullah Atal provided a strong start with a quick-fire 41 off 25 deliveries. But once he departed, the Capitals suffered a major collapse, losing 6 wickets for just 108 runs. With the middle order failing, Shakib stepped up.
He made his intentions clear by smashing a boundary off the first ball he faced. Calm and calculated, he held the innings together while wickets kept falling at the other end. He brought up his fifty in just 34 balls, finishing as the standout batter for Dubai.
But Shakib’s brilliance didn’t stop there.
With the ball, he delivered a masterclass. In his very first over, he took two key wickets removing openers Will Young and Dean Famcroft. He returned in the 11th over to dismiss Josh Clarkson, and later took his fourth wicket in the final over of his spell.
His bowling figures were extraordinary: 4 overs, 1 maiden, 13 runs, 4 wickets.
Thanks to his all-round dominance, Shakib was rightfully named Player of the Match. His performance not only lifted his franchise but also gave a strong reminder of his enduring class even as his national team stumbles elsewhere.
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FAQ
1. What made Shakib Al Hasan the Man of the Match?
He was named Man of the Match for his outstanding all-round performance scoring an unbeaten 58 runs and taking 4 wickets for just 13 runs in 4 overs.
2. Which team did Shakib play for in the Global Super League 2025?
He played for the Dubai Capitals as a replacement for Keshav Maharaj in the Global Super League 2025.
3. Who were the key batters and bowlers alongside Shakib in the match?
Sediqullah Atal supported with a quick 41 at the top of the order. With the ball, He led the attack by dismissing key Central Districts batters including Will Young and Dean Foxcroft.