Shoaib Akhtar outlines winning vision in maiden BPL stint with Dhaka Capitals

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar is set to begin his first stint in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) as a mentor with Dhaka Capitals, with a clear focus on instilling confidence, sharpening fast-bowling skills and teaching players how to win matches.

Speaking in Dhaka on Monday, Akhtar said he was excited to be part of the BPL for the first time, having last played competitive cricket in 2011. “I’ve never been part of the BPL before, but I’ve heard that it’s doing great,” he said. “Finally, I had the opportunity to come here and be a part of it. I want to pass on whatever I’ve learned, especially about fast bowling, motivate the players, give them a few tricks to win matches and elevate their mindset.”

Akhtar described his role with Dhaka Capitals as one centered on building belief and reconnecting with Bangladeshi cricket. “My job will be to give confidence, teach how to win matches and, through Dhaka Capitals, reconnect with the Bangladeshis, one of the most beautiful nations in the world,” he added.

The former speedster praised Bangladesh’s emerging crop of fast bowlers, noting their growth as a unit in recent years. He also lauded national team bowling coach Shaun Tait, a former rival in terms of raw pace. “Shaun Tait is one of the best coaches you have when it comes to fast bowling. You don’t need me after Shaun Tait,” Akhtar said. “He is one of the most honest and fantastic people you can have.”

Akhtar expressed a special desire to see Bangladesh’s leading quicks push new boundaries. “I want Taskin Ahmed to break my speed record,” he said, adding that Bangladesh’s pace attack looks promising ahead of the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held early next year in India and Sri Lanka.

He also offered advice to Nahid Rana, the fastest bowler in Bangladesh’s history, emphasizing the importance of physical conditioning. “Fast bowling is all about taking stress on the body, and the body can only take stress if you have the muscles,” Akhtar explained. He stressed the need for lean muscle development, high-repetition training, sustained pace and a strong attitude. “The most important thing is the attitude you have towards life, and that reflects on the field.”

With Bangladesh not scheduled to play any more T20 internationals this year, the BPL will serve as crucial preparation for players heading into the T20 World Cup. Akhtar remains optimistic about the team’s prospects. “I hope Bangladesh become a force in the coming World Cup,” he said. “This is one of the most exciting national teams, and I really hope they go far and maybe even climb the ladder to win the World Cup.”