ICC Cricket World Cup 2023: Virat Kohli has his say on facing Shakib Al Hasan in IND vs BAN clash

India and Bangladesh to clash on October 19 at the MCA Stadium in Pune.

India batter Virat Kohli spoke about the challenge of facing Shakib Al Hasan in Men in Blue’s upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 match against Bangladesh. This encounter will be played on October 19, 2023, at the MCA Stadium in Pune.

Bangladesh started their CWC 2023 campaign well, defeating Afghanistan in their opening match. But since then, they have lost to England and New Zealand in their last two matches. Compared to this, India have won all three of their matches thus far. They dominated Australia and Pakistan, while facing a bit tougher challenge against Afghanistan.

Virat Kohli will be the key batter for Bangladesh to get out and their best bet will be their captain Shakib Al Hasan. The two players have faced each other quite a lot over the years, and Shakib has also managed to taste success, dismissing Kohli a staggering five times. He wants to carry on with the momentum.

He shed light on the value of Kohli's wicket and stated on Star Sports: “He’s a special batsman, probably the best batsman in the modern era. I think I’m lucky to get him out 5 times. Of course, it will give me great pleasure, taking his wicket.”

He’s a very experienced bowler: Virat Kohli on Shakib Al Hasan

Virat and Shakib have been fierce rivals, especially in ODI cricket where Kohli has scored 140 runs off 148 deliveries from Shakib.

“Over the years, I’ve played a lot against him. He’s got amazing control. He’s a very experienced bowler. He bowls very well with the new ball, knows how to deceive the batsman, and is also very economical. You have to play your best against all these bowlers, and if you aren't able to, these bowlers are able to create pressure and increase the chances of getting you out,” Kohli said on Star Sports.

He further added: “There are no big teams in the World Cup. Whenever you start focusing only on bigger teams, an upset happens.”

India are at the top of the World Cup 2023 points table, while Bangladesh are placed seventh.