Bangladesh’s cricketing legend, Shakib Al Hasan, has made headlines once again, but not for his on-field heroics. The all-rounder has pulled out of what was expected to be his final Test match before retirement. Shakib was set to take the field in Dhaka against South Africa on October 21, but recent developments in his homeland have forced him to step back, leaving his Test career in an uncertain position.
Shakib’s Wish to Retire on Home Soil Delayed
Shakib had previously expressed his desire to bid farewell to Test cricket on his home ground. The first match of the series against South Africa in Dhaka seemed like the perfect opportunity for the celebrated cricketer to conclude his illustrious Test career. However, due to ongoing political protests and safety concerns surrounding his return to Bangladesh, Shakib has chosen to withdraw from the match, postponing his retirement plans indefinitely.
Shakib was included in the squad for the Dhaka Test, and his fans were hopeful to see him don the national jersey one last time. Unfortunately, circumstances beyond his control have led to this decision. His absence from the team now raises questions about when, or if, Shakib will officially retire from Test cricket.
Political Unrest and Legal Troubles
The protests against Shakib have their roots in Bangladesh’s political unrest. Shakib Al Hasan was an MP in Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government, but after the government was overthrown in August, a wave of protests erupted across the country. Shakib’s silence during this volatile period, particularly during the student movement, triggered public backlash.
The situation worsened when a murder case was filed against around 150 individuals, including Shakib, following the fall of the government. Although Shakib was not in Bangladesh at the time, he became a target of these protests. Since then, concerns over his safety and potential arrest have kept him from returning to Bangladesh.
Shakib Stopped in Dubai, Test Career in Limbo
Shakib, who had been in the United States after participating in Bangladesh’s recent series against India, was expected to fly to Dhaka from New York for the Test match. However, reports indicate that he was stopped in Dubai while en route to Bangladesh. On Friday, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) officially announced that Shakib would not be available for the Dhaka Test.
With Shakib out of the picture, uncapped spinner Hasan Murad has been named as his replacement for the match against South Africa. Murad will make his Test debut, stepping into the shoes of one of the greatest all-rounders in the history of Bangladesh cricket.
A Legendary Career in Doubt
Shakib Al Hasan’s Test career, which began in 2007, has seen him rise to become one of the world’s leading all-rounders. His ability to dominate with both bat and ball has earned him a special place in cricketing history. However, his career has also been marred by controversies, including suspensions and off-field issues.
Despite these setbacks, Shakib’s contributions to Bangladesh cricket are unmatched. His withdrawal from the Test against South Africa is a significant moment for the sport in Bangladesh, marking what could potentially be an abrupt and unceremonious end to his Test career.
While fans were eagerly awaiting a farewell match on home soil, it now seems unclear when Shakib will make his final appearance in Test cricket. The political and legal challenges he currently faces could further delay his retirement plans, leaving his Test future hanging in the balance.
