Shakib Al Hasan. (Source – Getty Images)
Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) officials have expressed their confidence that star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan will face no challenges upon his return to Bangladesh for the upcoming Test series against South Africa. This assurance comes after political turmoil and legal complications surrounding the cricketer.
Shakib was involved in a controversy when he was named among 147 individuals in a murder case filed in Dhaka last month. The case is linked to the death of Mohammed Rubel, who succumbed to injuries sustained during anti-government protests on August 5. Shakib, who had become a member of parliament in January under the Awami League government, has been absent from Bangladesh since the protests began and the subsequent fall of the government.
The 37-year-old was earlier playing in the Global T20 League in Canada. After that, he joined the national squad for the Pakistan Test series, then flew to England to play a county match for Surrey, and is now in India for yet another Test series. Shahriar Nafees, head of BCB’s cricket operations, has provided reassurance regarding Shakib’s situation.
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“I think the honorable chief adviser, law adviser, and sports adviser have spoken very clearly regarding Shakib Al Hasan. There is a clear message from the Bangladesh government that no one will be harassed unfairly in the cases that have been filed. We believe the interim government has made its position very clear on Shakib. Unless there is an injury problem or a selection-related issue, I personally don’t see any reason as of now why Shakib Al Hasan should not play in Bangladesh in the home series,” Nafees said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
I hope he will not be arrested: Asif Nazrul
Bangladesh’s law adviser, Asif Nazrul, had earlier expressed hope that Shakib would not face arrest. “There’s only a case filed against Shakib. I hope he will not be arrested. I have come to know that the police forces have been asked to show as much restraint as possible in case something incredible happens.”
While Shakib has received support from his teammates, his silence during the recent protests has drawn criticism. Many of his fellow national team players have spoken out about the protests and loss of lives, particularly among students, but the southpaw has remained notably quiet on the matter.