Before the T20 World Cup, Tanzim Sakib's inclusion in the Bangladesh squad over Mohammad Saifuddin sparked debate. Critics pointed out that Saifuddin, with a more impressive record in the last Bangladesh Premier League and seemingly better form, was overlooked. Despite this, the selectors chose Tanzim for his aggressive style, making him the fourth seamer in a squad already boasting Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, and Shoriful Islam.
Tanzim's selection proved fortuitous, as he found his way into the playing XI due to Shoriful Islam’s injury during a warm-up match against India. Seizing this opportunity, Tanzim delivered a solid performance against Sri Lanka, taking 1-24 in Bangladesh’s opening game. Determined to justify his selection, he set his sights on South Africa in the following match.
In a remarkable display against South Africa, Tanzim dismantled their top order with precise line and length, capturing three key wickets within the power-play. He finished with career-best figures of 3-18, earning praise from teammate Towhid Hridoy, who highlighted Tanzim’s clear-headed approach and effectiveness. Hridoy pointed out that the team’s confidence in Tanzim was well-placed, noting his consistent performance in recent months.
"We all know Sakib is very much capable and so we trust him and in the last couple of months and a couple of matches he bowled really well," Hridoy commented.
Tanzim demonstrated his adaptability by adjusting his bowling after being hit for a four and six by Quinton de Kock in his first over. This strategic change paid off as he subsequently dismissed Reeza Hendricks, followed by de Kock and Tristan Stubbs, crafting a brilliant three-over spell that left South Africa reeling at 25-4 in the power-play, especially after Taskin Ahmed's removal of Markram.
Addressing the media post-match, Tanzim downplayed the notion that he was out to prove his worth, focusing instead on his commitment to performing whenever given the chance. "I'm here to perform regardless of the level. My role is to deliver whenever selected," he explained.
Reflecting on his duel with de Kock, Tanzim recounted, "He (De Kock) scored 10 runs in my first over and hit me for an unexpected six and I didn't think that he would hit me a six from that place and so there was a hunger and Shanto bhai was telling me to go for the wicket and don't bowl defensive rather be attacking and I also felt that.”
Tanzim credited his success to a shift in mindset, emphasising the importance of wholehearted effort and sticking to his game plan even when the pitch favours fast bowlers.