Shakib Al Hasan’s wish to do the finishing off of his glorious Test career at home has finally started materializing. Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain publicly declared today that Shakib can play his last test for Bangladesh. “Shakib has been a big factor for Bangladesh in the sport, and the country, and his final Test will not be anywhere but here,” he added.
“He has given a lot to our country. I hope he will have the opportunity to play his last Test match here,” Bhuyain said during the Women’s T20 World Cup match between Bangladesh and Scotland on October 3. He added that the government would ensure the best security arrangements for Shakib and other players, even if some earlier reports had spoken of Shakib having to clear his political stance to guarantee his safety.
This change of mood of the government authorities seems to indicate that Shakib’s dream of playing at Mirpur is now achievable, following the turmoil he has faced owing to his very short political career. In the past month, he was accused of a murder case, which made people see him as an awful threat in the ongoing series against India.
A BCB official said they are doing everything possible to have him back for the two-match Test series against South Africa. “His stint in politics has proved to be a blessing in disguise,” the BCB official quipped, maintaining Shakib’s victory in the election was short-lived and didn’t offer much time to get involved in political maneuvers.
Shakib is all set to confirm his availability for the Test series shortly. However, the major concern is after the series, as it coincides with an ODI series against Afghanistan and he may not be able to travel outside the country. BCB president Faruque Ahmed has reversed his earlier stand and assures that they are ready to provide him security for Shakib during the match on October 7.
“I have talked to Shakib, and I think he will be able to retire at home,” said Ahmed after the board met in the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. “My comment on legal affairs is useless, but the government will take all decisions relating to security. All we are concerned about is that Shakib gets a safe environment both within the hotel and within the stadium.”
This is probably the deciding juncture of his career, Shakib is being kept glorified and wished for by fans and officials alike, reflecting the importance of his legacy in Bangladesh cricket.
