Uncertainty over Shakib Al Hasan’s participation in Bangladesh Test series amidst political tensions

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has approved the upcoming Test series between South Africa and Bangladesh after a security assessment. However, uncertainty looms over Bangladesh’s star all-rounder, Shakib Al Hasan, as questions remain about his participation due to safety concerns linked to ongoing political unrest.

CSA Approves Bangladesh Test Series The two-Test series between South Africa and Bangladesh will go ahead as scheduled, starting on October 21. The first match will be played in Dhaka, followed by the second Test in Chattogram. CSA’s decision came after a detailed security review by its safety team, which assessed the political situation in Bangladesh following recent unrest.

Despite earlier political instability, CSA deemed the environment stable enough for the tour, allowing the South African squad to continue their World Test Championship campaign with an arrival in Dhaka set for October 16.

Shakib Al Hasan’s Safety Concerns While the series is confirmed, Shakib Al Hasan’s role remains unclear. The all-rounder’s participation is under scrutiny due to security risks arising from his political affiliations. A former member of parliament with the Awami League, Shakib has faced public criticism for not speaking out during recent protests that led to the government’s fall. This has led to concerns about his safety on and off the field.

Bangladesh’s government has assured Shakib of standard security for national athletes. However, as noted by sports adviser Asif Mahmud, his dual role as a cricketer and politician complicates matters. “We will give Shakib the security a sportsperson is entitled to, but his political identity makes things difficult. The public’s anger towards his political role cannot be overlooked,” said Mahmud.

Shakib’s Political Stance and Possible Retirement Shakib Al Hasan recently added to the uncertainty by suggesting the upcoming Test in Dhaka could be his last. In a press conference, he indicated that his decision would depend on the ability of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and the government to ensure his safety. While avoiding a direct response about his political views, Shakib’s ambiguous stance has further fueled speculation about his future in international cricket.

Government advisers suggest that Shakib should take a page from former Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza, who publicly clarified his political position following the unrest. Such transparency, they argue, could ease public anger and mitigate threats against Shakib.

Legal Complications Add to Shakib’s Dilemma Shakib’s involvement in a murder case linked to recent protests adds another layer of uncertainty. While over 140 individuals have been named in the case, the Bangladeshi law ministry has indicated that being named does not imply guilt. Still, these legal challenges contribute to the growing concerns around Shakib’s safety and availability for the Test series.

Since the start of the T20 World Cup, Shakib has been away from Bangladesh and reportedly plans to return to the USA, where his family is based, following the ongoing Kanpur Test. With his recent retirement from T20 internationals, questions about his future in Test cricket are more relevant than ever.

Shakib’s Future in the Series Remains Unclear As CSA confirms its tour of Bangladesh, the focus now shifts to whether Shakib Al Hasan will participate. His safety concerns, political connections, and legal entanglements have put his involvement in the Test series in doubt. The BCB and the Bangladeshi government are working to ensure Shakib’s security, but his final decision will hinge on whether he feels safe enough to compete in Dhaka later this month.