TL;DR
- Shakib Al Hasan’s farewell Test match uncertain due to ongoing public outrage over his past political associations and perceived silence during July protests
- Prominent coach Mohammad Salahuddin calls for compassion, highlighting Shakib’s 17-year service to Bangladesh cricket and charitable work off the field
- Protesters demand Shakib’s removal from the South Africa series squad, threatening strikes and blockades if demands are ignored
- Shakib confirms he is unlikely to return home for the Test match amid safety concerns, leaving his final appearance in doubt
Bangladesh cricket star Shakib Al Hasan’s hopes of playing his farewell Test match on home soil have been thrown into uncertainty due to ongoing public outrage. The 37-year-old all-rounder, who recently announced his retirement from Test cricket, is facing criticism for his past association with the ousted Awami League government and his perceived silence during the student-led protests in July.
Prominent local coach Mohammad Salahuddin expressed deep frustration over the harsh public judgment surrounding Shakib. In a heartfelt Facebook post, Salahuddin called for compassion and forgiveness, highlighting Shakib’s 17-year service to Bangladesh cricket.
“I’ve never felt so much anger or sorrow towards the country or its people, but today, for some reason, I do. Don’t we, as humans, ever make mistakes ourselves?” Salahuddin wrote, indirectly referring to Shakib’s situation.
The coach emphasized Shakib’s contributions to Bangladesh’s global cricket reputation and his charitable work off the field. “Do you know how many people they’ve helped provide food and clothing for? How many helpless people they’ve arranged treatment for?” Salahuddin asked, urging the public to consider the player’s positive impact.
Shakib had expressed his desire to play his final Test in the upcoming series against South Africa, scheduled to begin on October 21 in Mirpur. However, the backlash threatens to deny him this opportunity.
Salahuddin also reminded critics of the sacrifices made by Shakib and other players for their country. “Did you see when Mashrafe fought for the country after five surgeries? Or when Shakib bowled with a fractured finger? When Tamim batted with one hand, who was that for?” he questioned.
The coach’s impassioned plea highlights the complex relationship between sports figures and political associations in Bangladesh. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether public sentiment will shift to allow Shakib his desired farewell Test match.
This controversy underscores the challenges faced by high-profile athletes in navigating political tensions while maintaining their sporting legacy. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether Shakib Al Hasan will have the opportunity to bid farewell to Test cricket on home ground, as he had hoped.
Source: The Daily Star
