Shakib episode will affect Bangla performance, concedes coach Domingo

Bangladesh coach Russell Domingo expects the recent ban on Shakib Al Hasan to affect the team's performance against India in the upcoming T20 and Test series but is hopeful that his players will step up to the challenge against the formidable hosts.

Bangladesh' build-up to the three-match T20 and two-match Test assignment was dealt a huge blow when Shakib was banned for two years, one year suspended, for failing to report three corrupt approaches from a suspected Indian bookie, a day before the team's departure.

Ahead of the first Twenty20 International here on Sunday, Domingo addressed the issue and was candid enough to admit that the dressing room is still recovering from the shock.

"He has been a big player for Bangladesh and is close friends with a lot of players. So it has obviously affected a few players. Obviously he has made a mistake and he is paying the price for it," Domingo said during a press meet after a training session at the Feroz Shah Kotla stadium here.

"There's not much we can control. Obviously it affects the team's performance but we need to be focused on the series and the World Cup (T20)," he added.

Since Domingo took charge just a month back, he didn't really get a chance to work with Shakib but what the South African understands is that the world's No.1 all-rounder commands huge respect in the change room.

"I haven't had a chance to know him personally but players have a great respect for him. But as I said, he has made a mistake and paid the price for it."