4 takeaways from New Zealand-Bangladesh ODI Series

Bangladesh Sorely Missed Shakib

Shakib al-Hasan's absence hurt Bangladesh severly in this series

There is no doubting that Shakib al-Hasan is one of the best all-rounders in the world of cricket. His value to Bangladesh was revealed once again in this series. Both the batting and bowling from the visitors seemed highly under-par in his absence.

In all the matches of this series, the Bangladeshi top and middle-order failed. If Shakib was there, he may well have steadied the ship when the going got tough against the New Zealand pacers. Furthermore, he could also have given the control with his left-arm spin which Bangladesh missed in all the games.

Of course, nothing is certain in cricket and there is no guarantee that Shakib would have turned things around. But the team’s complete capitulation shows how vital a member he is for this team. If Bangladesh somehow manage to win the World Cup, he would have to play the leading role.

Like a true all-rounder, he is equally impactful in both the batting and bowling halves of the game. And his experience is just another major asset that Bangladesh needs badly.