Shakib Al Hasan’s Political Ties Stir Tensions Amid Cricket Return

On Sunday, a group of fans demanding that Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan be included in a farewell test match against South Africa were violently attacked by rival protesters outside the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka

On Sunday, a group of fans demanding that Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan be included in a farewell test match against South Africa were violently attacked by rival protesters outside the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka. Armed with sticks and bamboo, the opposing group clashed with Shakib’s supporters, leading to chaos. According to police reports, the altercation was swiftly controlled by the army personnel’s intervention. Shakib, regarded as one of Bangladesh’s greatest cricketers, has been absent since July, when deadly protests broke out against the long-standing rule of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Shakib, a former member of parliament under Hasina’s Awami League, has faced public backlash for his silence during the protests, especially after the prime minister fled to India following her 15-year rule.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) had assured Shakib that he would not face harassment upon his return, but his prolonged absence fueled further unrest. Despite regretting not addressing the political crisis earlier, he urged his supporters to attend the match. He was scheduled to play his final test against South Africa on Monday, but his return remained uncertain. His illustrious cricket career, which boasts 71 test matches, 247 One-Day Internationals, and 129 Twenty20 Internationals, has been overshadowed by the ongoing political turmoil. His involvement in politics and the subsequent fallout complicates his legacy as Bangladesh navigates a delicate transition of power under an interim government.

[Image Source: OneCricket]