Shoaib Akhtar is eager to pass on his fast-bowling know-how during his maiden stint in the Bangladesh Premier League, joining Dhaka Capitals as a mentor in what will also be his first role within a T20 franchise support staff.
“I’ve never been part of the BPL before, but I’ve heard it’s doing really well,” Akhtar said in Dhaka on Monday. “Now I finally have the opportunity to be here. I want to share whatever I’ve learned — especially about fast bowling — motivate the players, give them a few tricks to win matches and help elevate their mindset.
“My job is to build confidence, teach them how to win games, and through Dhaka Capitals, reconnect with Bangladesh — one of the most beautiful nations in the world.”
Akhtar was full of praise for Bangladesh’s emerging pace unit, which has developed into a cohesive force in recent years. He also lauded national bowling coach Shaun Tait, a former rival on the speed gun during their playing days.
“I want Taskin Ahmed to break my speed record,” Akhtar said. “The pace battery you’re talking about is looking very strong. I really hope they go deep in the T20 World Cup early next year.
“Shaun Tait is one of the best fast-bowling coaches you could have. Honestly, after Shaun, you don’t even need me. He’s a fantastic coach and one of the most honest people you’ll come across.”
Offering specific advice to Nahid Rana, the fastest bowler in Bangladesh’s history, Akhtar emphasised the importance of physical conditioning.
“Fast bowling is about how much stress your body can take,” he said. “And the body can only take stress if you have the right muscle mass — lean muscle, high-repetition training. Keep the pace high and the attitude even higher.
“I see that in Taskin — he looks sharp, focused and confident. And Nahid Rana too. If he keeps training properly, I’ll share some of the trades and secrets of training with him whenever I get the chance. If he gets that right, he can go a long way.
“But above everything else, attitude matters. How you live reflects directly on how you perform on the field.”
With Bangladesh not scheduled to play any more T20 internationals this year, the upcoming BPL will serve as their primary preparation for the T20 World Cup.
“I hope Bangladesh become a real force at the World Cup,” Akhtar said. “This is one of the most exciting national teams around. I truly hope they go far — or even climb all the way and win it.”
