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TL;DR
- Shakib Al Hasan apologized for his silence during the July 2024 protests in Bangladesh, acknowledging the sacrifices of students who fought against inequality.
- He clarified that his brief political involvement was to aid his hometown, Magura, but emphasized his primary identity as a cricketer.
- Shakib credited his career success to the unwavering support of his fans and requested their continued support for his final match.
- The apology comes amid significant national unrest over economic and political issues, highlighting the bond between athletes and their supporters.
Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh’s cricket icon, has issued a heartfelt apology for his silence during the July 2024 protests in Dhaka, acknowledging the pain and sacrifices of the students involved. In a deeply emotional statement, Shakib expressed his respect and gratitude for the love and support he has received throughout his career, particularly highlighting the bravery of students who lost their lives fighting against inequality. He conveyed his understanding of the families’ grief, stating that no compensation can heal the loss of loved ones.
Addressing his absence during this critical period, Shakib apologized to those who felt hurt by his silence, stating, “I sincerely apologize to those who felt hurt by my silence. If I were in your place, I might have felt the same way.” He clarified that his brief political involvement was solely aimed at contributing to the development of his hometown, Magura. Despite this, Shakib emphasized that his primary identity remains as a cricketer, driven by his passion for the game.
Reflecting on his journey, Shakib credited his success to the unwavering support of his fans. He acknowledged their presence during matches and their cheers from various places as a source of motivation. As he prepares for his final cricket match, Shakib humbly requested continued support from his fans, stating, “This journey is your story as much as mine. I want you all by my side as I play my last game. Together, we will close this chapter – a story written by your hands, not mine.”
Shakib’s apology comes in the wake of widespread protests in Bangladesh against a controversial job quota system and broader economic and political grievances. The July protests were marked by violent clashes between students and law enforcement, resulting in significant casualties and property damage. The unrest highlighted deep-seated issues within the country, including corruption and lack of accountability.
Despite these challenges, Shakib remains focused on cricket as he prepares for an emotional farewell to the sport he has devoted his life to. His message serves as a powerful reminder of the bond between athletes and their supporters, underscoring the importance of unity and understanding during times of national crisis.
