Shakib Al Hasan Cleared to Compete in ODI Series Against Afghanistan

Shakib Al Hasan is set to play in the ODI series against Afghanistan, confirmed by BCB President Faruque Ahmed. The matches will be held in the UAE, starting November 6. Despite past political controversies affecting his career, the BCB remains supportive of Shakib’s return. However, Shakib has not returned to Bangladesh due to public sentiments regarding his previous political role, complicating his retirement plans.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has officially confirmed that Shakib Al Hasan is eligible to participate in the upcoming three-match One Day International (ODI) series against Afghanistan. BCB President Faruque Ahmed stated there are no restrictions preventing the allrounder from representing Bangladesh. The series will take place in the United Arab Emirates, which serves as Afghanistan’s adopted home venue, commencing with the first match on November 6, followed by matches on November 9 and November 11. During a press briefing at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur, Mr. Ahmed noted, “Since the team (for the three-match series against Afghanistan) has not been given yet, it means he is available.” Shakib’s recent absence from the country is attributed to public discontent directed towards him following a student-led mass uprising. This unrest was partly fueled by his initial decision to remain part of the national team despite the political implications surrounding his former role as a Member of Parliament under the ousted Awami League government. It was deemed advisable for him not to return to Bangladesh for what would have been his final Test match against South Africa, which has led to ongoing controversies regarding his career and public sentiments. Mr. Ahmed expressed regret that circumstances prevented Shakib from concluding his illustrious career in front of a home audience. He remarked, “I tried my best so that Shakib can get his retirement at home but the fact is he is not just a player, he was an MP under the last government. So obviously there are some sentiments there.” Furthermore, he acknowledged the challenges faced, emphasizing that such matters transcend simple player management, invoking legal considerations that the board cannot dictate. The BCB president affirmed that if Shakib had chosen to return, comprehensive security measures would have been arranged to ensure his safety. However, as he did not return, the board could not take further action on the matter, concluding that it ultimately lies in the purview of the law enforcement agencies. Overall, Shakib Al Hasan’s availability for the series against Afghanistan marks a significant development amidst the backdrop of his complicated relationship with public sentiments and his previous political ties.

In recent months, Shakib Al Hasan, a prominent cricketer and former Member of Parliament from the Awami League government, has found himself in a politically charged situation following a public outcry against him during a mass protest led by students. The protests arose over various grievances, with Shakib’s perceived lack of support for the demonstrators further escalating tensions. As a result, there have been calls for him to refrain from returning to Bangladesh, particularly during a time when he was scheduled to retire from Test cricket after a match against South Africa. His status as an iconic sports figure, along with his political background, has complicated his relationship with fans and the public. The BCB’s efforts to assist him during this period indicate the intricate nature of his situation, as they navigate the intersection of sports and political sentiment in Bangladesh.

In conclusion, Shakib Al Hasan’s participation in the series against Afghanistan is confirmed, marking his continued presence in international cricket despite ongoing public sentiment and political challenges surrounding his former legislative role. The BCB has expressed its support for Shakib while acknowledging the complexities of his situation, underscored by his absence from the country during a crucial part of his career. The board’s desire for him to retire at home signifies a recognition of his contributions to Bangladeshi cricket, although final outcomes hinge on broader social and legal circumstances.

Original Source: www.bssnews.net