Why Asif Mahmud Discouraged Shakib from Coming to Bangladesh

Until yesterday evening, the news was that Shakib Al Hasan would return to play his final Test match in Mirpur. The all-rounder was included in the squad announced for the first Test against South Africa. However, as the night deepened, the likelihood of Shakib’s return to Bangladesh began to fade.

By the light of this morning (October 17), it became clear that Shakib Al Hasan would not be returning to the country, at least for now. After arriving in Dubai from the United States, Shakib confirmed to close associates and several media outlets that he wouldn’t be returning to Bangladesh at this time.

Earlier today, protestors opposing Shakib gathered at the Mirpur Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. They submitted a memorandum demanding that Shakib Al Hasan should not be allowed to play under any circumstances.

In such a situation, the chances of Shakib returning diminished entirely. Later, this was confirmed by Bangladesh’s interim government Youth and Sports Adviser, Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain.

In a statement, Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain said, "I personally wanted a player like Shakib Al Hasan to retire on home soil. Necessary arrangements were made accordingly. However, from the outset, I mentioned that there is public resentment due to Shakib Al Hasan’s association with the fascist Awami government, which is natural. Even though he clarified his political stance and addressed public concerns through a Facebook post, recent protests suggest that it wasn’t enough. Those who are protesting have a constitutional right to do so. To avoid any untoward incidents during the series between South Africa and Bangladesh, I had to advise the BCB to discourage his return for now. This decision was made to ensure the safety of the players and to safeguard the country’s image in the international sports arena. However, I believe everyone should respect the law. If there are any complaints, they should be resolved through legal processes."

From the Youth and Sports Adviser’s statement, it is clear that Shakib Al Hasan will not be playing in the Mirpur Test. Unless circumstances change swiftly, the Test match against India in Kanpur will remain Shakib’s last Test for Bangladesh.