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Shakib's Homecoming on Hold: Test Farewell in Jeopardy

Sports Desk

  17 Oct 2024, 08:35
Photo: Collected

Former Bangladesh captain and all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan’s return to Bangladesh is now in doubt after student protesters burned his effigy on Wednesday.

The South African cricket team has arrived in Dhaka, and Bangladesh's newly appointed head coach, Phil Simmons, has also joined the team. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced the squad for the Mirpur Test, including Shakib Al Hasan, who had recently received clearance to return. However, a fresh complication arose late Wednesday night, forcing Shakib to pause in the UAE. His flight to Dhaka now depends on receiving further approval.

Shakib aims to conclude his illustrious international Test career on home soil with the Mirpur Test against South Africa, as he plans to focus exclusively on ODIs going forward. With no home matches scheduled for Bangladesh before the 2025 Champions Trophy, this Test represents his final opportunity to bid farewell to local fans.

Earlier, during Bangladesh’s recent tour to India, Shakib expressed his desire to play the final Test only if security measures were ensured amid Bangladesh's evolving political landscape. Though uncertainties persisted, he received a green light from the interim government and had made all travel arrangements to return on Thursday, October 17.

However, upon arriving in Dubai en route from the USA, Shakib was asked to wait instead of continuing to Dhaka. Reports suggest the ongoing protests near the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium in Mirpur, along with other complications, led to this delay.

The government is reportedly reevaluating his security arrangements given the recent unrest near the stadium. Shakib’s situation became even more delicate after he was implicated in a murder case in Dhaka’s Adabor area during the national team’s tour to Pakistan, which subjected him to harsh criticism on social media.

Although the BCB and government initially assured Shakib of sufficient security, the recent developments raise doubts about whether he will be able to participate in the Mirpur Test. For now, his return to the field remains in limbo, with fans eagerly awaiting the outcome of this unfolding situation.

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