Shakib Al Hasan to Miss South Africa Series Due to Security Concerns
Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh’s esteemed cricketer, will miss the South Africa Test series due to security concerns stemming from political unrest in his home country. He recently retired from international cricket and faces public anger due to his former role as a member of parliament in the ousted government. Shakib stated, “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 first Test is scheduled for October 21, with a second match following on October 29.
Shakib Al Hasan, the distinguished all-rounder from Bangladesh, has announced that he will not be returning to his home country due to pressing security concerns. At 37 years of age, he recently decided to retire from international cricket but was included in the squad to face South Africa in a two-Test series starting October 21. The situation stems from Shakib’s previous role as a member of parliament with the now-ousted Awami League government, led by Sheikh Hasina. The political turmoil that erupted with widespread protests in August has led to significant public discontent, particularly directed towards former government officials, including Shakib. He expressed his concerns through 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.” With an impressive record of 4,609 runs and 246 wickets in Test cricket, Shakib is revered as one of Bangladesh’s greatest sports figures. His political involvement has complicated his situation, as numerous former officials from the Awami League face legal scrutiny amid violent protests that resulted in over 700 fatalities. The head of the sports ministry, Asif Mahmud, advised Shakib against returning to Bangladesh to ensure his safety and maintain the country’s reputation. Following these events, Shakib, who was recently in Dubai and has plans to relocate to the United States, has not set foot in Bangladesh since the government crumbled while he participated in a domestic T20 competition in Canada. With the first Test set to be held in Mirpur, Dhaka, this match marks the first international cricket event in Bangladesh since the violent protests. The second Test will follow in Chittagong, starting October 29, amidst ongoing unrest in the country.
The article discusses the critical situation surrounding Shakib Al Hasan, a prominent All-rounder in Bangladesh’s cricket history, as he opts not to return to his home country amidst security threats stemming from political upheaval. The recent protests against the former governing party, namely Awami League, have intensified public anger, placing former officials, including Shakib, under scrutiny and jeopardizing their safety. The backdrop includes a significant political revolution that led to violent unrest, with a considerable loss of life and numerous former officials, including Shakib, facing investigations regarding their past roles in governance. This context amplifies the implications of Shakib’s decision as he navigates his professional obligations as an athlete in light of societal instability.
In summary, Shakib Al Hasan’s decision to forgo his return to Bangladesh stems from severe security concerns following the political turmoil and public unrest related to the recent protests against the Awami League government. As a celebrated cricketer with a notable legacy, his involvement in politics has made his position precarious amidst ongoing investigations and public animosity. The decision by the sports ministry to prioritize safety highlights the gravity of the situation as Bangladesh prepares to host international cricket amidst unrest.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
