Sports Desk:

Shakib Al Hasan couldn’t have asked for a better start to his Global Super League (GSL) journey. On debut for Dubai Capitals, he produced a match-winning all-round performance to lead his side to a 22-run victory over Central Districts—and later reflected with pride and nostalgia.

It was a last-minute call-up, but Shakib made it count.

“It was a last-minute call (to play for Dubai Capitals). One of their players got injured, and I had to step in. I’m really proud to be part of Dubai Capitals,” Shakib said after being named Player of the Match on Thursday.

The veteran all-rounder scored an unbeaten 58 off 37 balls, stabilising the innings after early losses, and later returned with the ball to claim 4 wickets for just 13 runs. But beyond the numbers, it was the familiar Caribbean setting that gave Shakib a sense of comfort and confidence.

“I’ve been coming to the Caribbean since 2007. It feels like my second home. I know the conditions well and understand how to bowl on these tracks. Playing for the Amazon Warriors in the past also helped. I’m happy with how I contributed today,” he shared.

With wickets falling around him, Shakib emphasised the importance of batting deep, “It was important for me to stay at the crease. Once we crossed 160, we knew we had a chance. On this ground, that’s always a fighting total.”

He concluded with optimism: “It’s a short tournament, and a win in the first game gives us momentum. Hopefully, we keep moving forward from here.”