Former Bangladesh captain and allrounder Shakib Al Hasan’s return to Bangladesh has become uncertain as student protesters on Wednesday burned his effigy, reports UNB.
Shakib has earlier expressed his desire to play the last Test match of his career in Dhaka, in front of the home crowd.
Shakib has been named in Bangladesh’s squad for the upcoming Test series against South Africa, with the first match set for October 21 in Mirpur.
According to sources within the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), Shakib is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka on Thursday at 11:20 p.m.
However, his return now appears uncertain due to Wednesday’s protests and the threat of more demonstrations.
A high government official confirmed to the media that concerns over public anger has led to advisories against Shakib’s coming to Dhaka for his own safety.
A leader of the agitating student group, seeking anonymity, said they intend to submit a letter to the BCB headquarters on Thursday afternoon, urging the board to prevent Shakib from entering the stadium.
The group has also called on more students and protesters to join them at the BCB headquarters.
Earlier, Asif Mahmud, the sports adviser for Bangladesh’s interim government, assured that necessary security arrangements would be provided for Shakib and suggested that he clarify his political stance.
In response, Shakib issued an apology on social media for his silence during the protests in July and August against the previous government led by Sheikh Hasina, who was viewed as autocratic.
After the student-led protests ousted the Sheikh Hasina government, of which Shakib was a member, hundreds of legal cases were filed against the leaders of the Sheikh Hasina party, including Shakib.
Bd-Pratidin English/ Afsar Munna
