In a series of setbacks for the Bangladesh cricket team, their star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has found himself in hot water following a controversial incident during the Rawalpindi Test against Pakistan. The match, which was already marred by slow over-rate penalties for both teams, took a more dramatic turn when Shakib’s actions on the field caught the attention of the International Cricket Council (ICC). As a result, Shakib has been fined and handed a demerit point, further complicating his already tumultuous situation.
Bangladesh Cricket Team’s Double Blow
The Bangladesh cricket team has been dealing with multiple challenges in recent days. First, they faced a penalty for slow over-rate during the Rawalpindi Test, losing three points from their World Test Championship tally. Pakistan, their opponents, were also docked six points for the same infraction. This was a significant blow for both teams, but especially for Bangladesh, who are trying to improve their standing in the Test rankings.
However, the bigger shock came when the ICC took disciplinary action against Shakib Al Hasan, one of Bangladesh’s most celebrated cricketers. Shakib, who has had a storied career with numerous accolades, is now under scrutiny for his conduct during the match.
ICC Penalizes Shakib Al Hasan
The ICC has fined Shakib Al Hasan 10% of his match fee and awarded him one demerit point for violating the ICC Code of Conduct during the Rawalpindi Test. The penalty was imposed after Shakib was found guilty of breaching Article 2.9 of the ICC Code, which pertains to “throwing a ball in an inappropriate and/or dangerous manner at or near a player, player support staff, umpire, match referee, or any other third person during an international match.”
The incident occurred on the fifth day of the Test when Shakib, frustrated by the slow pace at which Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan was preparing himself at the crease, threw the ball towards Rizwan in a fit of anger. Although the ball did not make contact with Rizwan, the act was deemed reckless and unsportsmanlike by the match officials.
Match referee Ranjan Madugalle oversaw the disciplinary process, and Shakib accepted both the charge and the penalty, avoiding the need for a formal hearing. The charges were initially leveled by on-field umpires Richard Kettleborough and Adrian Holdstock, along with third umpire Michael Gough and fourth umpire Rashid Riaz.
The Incident That Sparked the Controversy
The controversy unfolded during the 33rd over of Pakistan’s second innings. Shakib was bowling for Bangladesh when Rizwan, taking an extended amount of time to get ready at the crease, appeared to test Shakib’s patience. As Shakib began his delivery stride, Rizwan stepped back from the crease, prompting an irritated response from Shakib, who then threw the ball towards the batsman. The incident drew immediate attention, with umpire Kettleborough stepping in to reprimand Shakib on the field.
This on-field altercation is not the first time Shakib has been involved in controversies. However, this incident has added to his woes, especially considering his recent off-field troubles.
Off-Field Troubles: A Difficult Time for Shakib
Shakib’s punishment from the ICC comes at a time when the cricketer is already facing severe personal and legal challenges. Recently, he was accused of involvement in a murder case, leading to an FIR being filed against him in Dhaka. Although these allegations are still under investigation, they have undoubtedly added pressure on the cricketer, who has been a mainstay in Bangladesh’s cricketing success over the years.
Shakib’s current situation reflects a significant downturn in his career. Once celebrated for his all-round prowess and leadership on the field, he now finds himself entangled in legal issues and disciplinary actions. This series of events could have long-term implications for his cricketing future, both at the national and international levels.
The Road Ahead for Shakib and Bangladesh Cricket
As Bangladesh cricket navigates these turbulent times, the focus will be on how the team and Shakib Al Hasan handle the challenges ahead. Shakib’s experience and talent are invaluable to the team, but his recent actions have put his reputation at risk. The demerit point added to his record could lead to more severe penalties if he is found guilty of further breaches in the future.
For the Bangladesh cricket team, these incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of discipline and professionalism, both on and off the field. The team will need to regroup and refocus as they continue their campaign in the World Test Championship, hoping to put these controversies behind them and concentrate on their performance in upcoming matches.
As the cricketing world watches, the next few months will be crucial for Shakib Al Hasan. Whether he can overcome these challenges and return to his best form remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that the road ahead will be anything but easy for Bangladesh’s star all-rounder.
