WATCH: Bangladeshi cricketer Naim Sheikh walks on fire to mentally prepare for Asia Cup, World Cup

BANGLADESHI CRICKETER Naim Sheikh is taking mental preparation to a whole new level ahead of Asia Cup and World Cup.

A video of the player walking on a bed of burning coals to toughen himself up for the pressure cooker tournaments he's about to compete in is doing the rounds on social media.

He is seen walking barefoot on the sizzling embers, following the instructions of a trainer.

Naim Sheikh working with a mind trainer ahead of Asia Cup. pic.twitter.com/mkykegJ06p

— Saif Ahmed (@saifahmed75) August 18, 2023

Walking on fire like that is a common practice in the Bengal region; and a feature of many folk festivals. If done correctly without stalling or stepping the wrong way, the feet do not burn, since the foot blocks the air and the fire goes out under it. But hesitation and slowness can allow the fire to stay lit and cause burns.

The practice is meant to demostrate the mental fortitude of the participants under pressure.

It seems Naim is reaching deep into his own cultural traditions to prepare himself for the two most important competitions of the year.

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