The former Australian all-rounder believes that the Bangladeshi all-rounder will show power in the upcoming Asia Cup and T20 World Cup with a fiery performance. 35-year-old Shakib has played 383 matches in three editions of international cricket so far. More than 13 thousand runs, 631 wickets. The way Shakib has been performing in all three editions over the years, Watson is endlessly impressed.

Whether the decision to bring Shakib back as the leader of the T20 team is right or not, in response to a question in the ICC review, Watson said, ‘Of course! Having a leader of Shakib’s quality, I think it will give Bangladesh team a new boost. He is very experienced and has led Bangladesh in many matches. Many franchises have also captained the league. His decision under pressure will be invaluable for the team. He also has a point to prove himself. And if a world-class cricketer has the determination to prove himself and succeed, then he performs well. From that point of view, I will be surprised if Shakib does not rule the T20 World Cup and Asia Cup. And if a world-class cricketer has the determination to prove himself and succeed, then he performs well. From that point of view, I will be surprised if Shakib does not rule the T20 World Cup and Asia Cup.’

Because he was an all-rounder himself, Watson may have been able to correctly evaluate Shakib’s work, ‘The work of an all-rounder is very challenging. A spinning all-rounder that may appear from the outside, the left-arm spinner may not have to do much physical work. But he is bowling a lot in subcontinental conditions. Again, he has to play a key role in the batting line-up. Watching Shakib play in all three formats is something special. It will be rare to see someone as successful as him playing across all three formats in the future. At the age of 35, to have a batting average of over 30 and a bowling average of fewer than 30 for 15 years in all formats is something special.’