Shakib Al Hasan Apologizes for Silence, Targets Farewell Test

Shakib Al Hasan Apologizes for Silence, Targets Farewell Test

Bangladesh cricket legend Shakib Al Hasan has issued an unconditional apology for his silence during the recent civil unrest against ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This move is seen as a potential step towards clearing the way for a farewell Test match at home against South Africa.

Shakib, who has been accused in a murder case in Bangladesh, expressed his regret for not speaking out during the protests. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by students and apologized to those who were hurt by his silence.

The 37-year-old all-rounder, who has played 71 Tests for Bangladesh, has expressed his desire to play his final five-day game at home. He had previously announced his retirement from T20Is after the World Cup in June.

Shakib’s request for a farewell Test had initially been dismissed by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), which stated that it was not responsible for providing security. However, sports advisor to the government Asif Mahmud indicated that security could be provided if Shakib clarified his political stance.

In his apology, Shakib emphasized that his political involvement was solely driven by his desire to contribute to the development of his hometown, Magura. He stated that his primary identity remains as a cricketer for Bangladesh.

Shakib’s public apology is likely to pave the way for a farewell Test in Bangladesh Whites at his favorite ‘Sher-e-Bangla’ Stadium in Mirpur. He expressed his desire to bid farewell to his fans and acknowledge their support throughout his career.

Bangladesh-Pakistan Test Series in Jeopardy Amid Civil Unrest

Bangladesh-Pakistan Test Series in Jeopardy Amid Civil Unrest

The two-Test series between Bangladesh and Pakistan, scheduled to commence on August 21 in Rawalpindi, faces uncertainty due to ongoing civil unrest in Bangladesh. The unrest, sparked by the forced resignation and escape of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has disrupted travel plans for the Bangladesh team.

The Bangladesh A team’s shadow tour to Pakistan has already been affected by the unrest. Former Test skipper Mominul Haque was set to play for the A team against Pakistan Shaheens, but the tour has been postponed. The arrival of both the A and Test teams in Pakistan is now in doubt.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is making efforts to salvage the series. They have offered to host the Bangladesh players for additional days and provide training facilities in Rawalpindi ahead of the Test matches. However, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has not yet responded.

The BCB has delayed the arrival of their A side to Pakistan by 48 hours, adding further uncertainty to the series. Reports have also emerged that homes of some senior Bangladesh players have been attacked by mobs, complicating the situation further.

The A team was originally scheduled to arrive in Pakistan on August 10, while the Test squad was due on August 17. The A team’s first four-day game is set to begin on August 11.

The Bangladesh cricket team has not toured Pakistan since the 2019-2020 season. The PCB is actively trying to maintain communication with the BCB, but the current circumstances make it challenging.

“With the BCB president (Najmul Hosain Papon) also leaving the country, apparently the board is not functioning normally,” a PCB source said.

The ongoing unrest in Bangladesh has cast a shadow over the upcoming Test series against Pakistan. The PCB is hopeful of salvaging the series, but the situation remains fluid and the arrival of the Bangladesh teams is uncertain.

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