Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh's senior all-rounder, garnered attention for his unorthodox on-field performance during his batting stint in the first Test against India in Chennai.
After Bangladesh's top order disintegrated to 36/4, Shakib stepped in under pressure and demonstrated his purpose with a counter-attacking strategy.
While his aggressive attitude astonished some, what piqued fans' interest even more was a strange sight: Shakib was spotted biting a thread that appeared to be hanging from his neck and tied to the side of his helmet.
This unique behavior did not go ignored, as cameras instantly focused on the strange image, causing a stir on social media.
Fans speculated on the function of the thread, which appeared to be linked to his helmet. Some pondered if it was just a habit or something related to Shakib's ability to focus under duress.
During the live broadcast on JioCinema, Dinesh Karthik, India's former wicketkeeper-batsman, put light on the riddle of Shakib's peculiar batting technique with the thread.
According to Karthik, Bangladesh's Tamim Iqbal, who is also on the commentary team for the series, advised him that the thread has a practical purpose in Shakib's batting stance. It serves as a self-check mechanism, ensuring Shakib's head does not fall to the leg side during his stance and shots.
The strain on the string attached to Shakib's helmet serves as a reminder if his head begins to tilt too far, allowing him to retain greater balance and control at the crease.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh was bundled out for 139 runs in their 1st innings, with Jasprit Bumrah starring with 4/50, while Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj and Ravindra Jadeja picked two wickets each.
