Shakib Al Hasan, the veteran Bangladesh all-rounder, has cited security concerns as the reason for his decision not to return home, which will result in his absence from the upcoming Test series against South Africa. His previous role as a lawmaker in the ousted government amidst recent protests exacerbates his precarious situation, compelling recommendations against his return by sports ministry officials. The unrest has resulted in over 700 casualties and has cast a long shadow over sports in the country.
Shakib Al Hasan, the esteemed Bangladesh all-rounder, has announced that he will be unable to return to his homeland due to security concerns, resulting in his absence from the imminent Test series against South Africa. Despite having declared his retirement from international cricket last month and being selected for the series beginning on October 21, the 37-year-old cricketer’s fears stem from his previous role as a member of parliament under the administration that was recently ousted amid public unrest. Shakib expressed his concerns in 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.” One of Bangladesh’s finest sports figures, Shakib has scored 4,609 runs in 71 Test matches and holds the record for the most Test wickets for the nation at 246. After being elected as an MP for the Awami League party in January, Shakib now finds himself in a precarious situation following violent protests that have led to significant loss of life and political turmoil in the country. The sports ministry, represented by Asif Mahmud, has recommended against his return, indicating that “recent protests suggest it wasn’t enough” to assuage safety concerns. Currently, reports suggest Shakib is in Dubai but plans to travel to the United States after not having returned to Bangladesh since the political upheaval while he was participating in a domestic Twenty20 tournament in Canada. The upcoming Test matches in Mirpur and Chittagong will mark Bangladesh’s first international cricket events since the violence resulted in over 700 fatalities, according to the health ministry.
The situation in Bangladesh has escalated following protests that led to the ousting of then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This has placed individuals affiliated with her government, such as Shakib Al Hasan, in potential danger due to heightened public anger. Shakib’s recent silence during the protests and his previous political role have further complicated his ability to safely return to Bangladesh. His current status as a prominent sports figure juxtaposed with these political conflicts highlights the intertwining of sports and politics in the region, calling attention to the broader implications for athletes who may be caught in similar situations.
In conclusion, Shakib Al Hasan’s decision to forgo his return to Bangladesh highlights the severe impact of political unrest in the country, particularly on notable figures with previous government ties. His safety concerns, stemming from recent protests and public animosity towards the former administration, preclude him from participating in crucial international fixtures, raising questions about the intersection between sports and security in politically volatile regions.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
