Shakib Al Hasan, the esteemed Bangladeshi cricketer, has stated he will not return to Bangladesh due to security concerns related to ongoing political unrest. His retirement has coincided with violent protests stemming from the ousting of the former government, leading to fears for his safety. Despite being selected for the Test series against South Africa, Shakib’s situation reflects the broader impact of political turmoil within the country.
Shakib Al Hasan, the prominent Bangladeshi all-rounder, has announced that he will not be returning to Bangladesh due to security concerns stemming from ongoing political unrest in the country. Following his recent retirement from international cricket, he was included in the squad for the two-Test series against South Africa, the first of which is scheduled to commence on 21 October. The 37-year-old, however, expressed doubt about his return, citing a personal security issue connected to the fallout from a political crisis in Bangladesh. Shakib, a former member of parliament associated with the ousted government, has faced public hostility since protests led to a violent crackdown by authorities in August, claiming over 700 lives. As an influential sports figure, with 4,609 runs and 246 Test wickets to his name, his absence during such turmoil raised concerns. He articulated his sentiments during an interview with bdnews24.com, stating, “I was to return home… but now I don’t think I can. It is over a security issue, a matter of my own security.” The Ministry of Sports, headed by Asif Mahmud, has recommended that Shakib refrain from returning to ensure not only his safety but also to uphold the image of the country amid the ongoing unrest, which included numerous incidents of violence. Shakib’s current location is reported to be in Dubai, with plans to travel to the United States, and he has not stepped foot in Bangladesh since the protests escalated. The first test match against South Africa will notably mark the international cricketing resumption in Bangladesh since the political upheaval.
The current political climate in Bangladesh has become increasingly volatile following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government, which has left many members of her party, including Shakib Al Hasan, at risk. The protests that erupted in August have led to significant casualties and unrest, prompting many former government officials to avoid returning to the country. Shakib’s status as a celebrated cricket player amplifies the implications of his absence, as cricket serves as a unifying sport for the nation. The situation remains tense, affecting not only political figures but also public sentiments toward sports and cultural symbols in Bangladesh.
In summary, Shakib Al Hasan’s decision to abstain from returning to Bangladesh underscores the serious implications of the current political unrest in the country. His acknowledgment of personal security concerns amid this tumultuous environment highlights the intersection of sports and politics in Bangladesh, where public sentiment is greatly influenced by recent events. The forthcoming Test series against South Africa will proceed in his absence, marking a significant moment in the nation’s cricketing calendar under challenging circumstances.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
