Legendary Bangladeshi all-rounder and former captain Shakib Al Hasan, who announced his decision to retire from Tests last month, is all set to get picked in the Bangladesh squad for the farewell series against South Africa later this month. According to a report in Cricbuzz on Monday, Shakib’s dream of playing his last match in front of home fans could become a reality after he received strong support from Bangladesh Youth and Sports Advisor Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain.
Bhuyain is eager to fulfil Shakib’s wish of playing his last match in front of Bangladeshi fans.
“He (Shakib) is a player who has contributed a lot to the country. Since he wishes to play his final Test match in Bangladesh, I personally hope he gets that opportunity,” Bhuiyan was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.
“We will absolutely provide the highest level of security for our players. If there are any allegations against anyone, that is a different issue. I cannot comment on that, as it falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Law. However, we have already committed to ensuring Shakib Al Hasan’s security, and we will honour that commitment,” he added.
Shakib, who is also a politician, is accused of being involved in a murder case. He expressed concern over his security in Bangladesh during the second Test played against India in Kanpur last month.
According to the report, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is trying its level best to bring Shakib back for the two-match Test series against South Africa.
“He (Shakib) is expected to let us know in a couple of days whether he will play in the two-match Test series or not,” a Bangladesh Cricket Board official was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.
BCB president Faruque Ahmed, who had said last month that the board can’t provide any kind of security to Shakib, has also changed his stance and has now insisted that they are ready to give security to Shakib in and around the stadium premises.
“I have had communication with Shakib, and he has a good chance to retire at home,” Faruque told reporters after completing a board meeting at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Monday.
“I cannot say about the legal thing, and I am talking with the highest authority. I am a small person, and the matter-related Shakib needs to come from the government. There are security agencies and government along with advisors, and they will decide to take full responsibility of Shakib.”
“Our responsibility is to take the player into the hotel and inside the stadium while he is playing or practicing, and I think we can take that responsibility,” he added.
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