Dhaka, Oct 09 (V7N): Shakib Al Hasan, the renowned Bangladeshi all-rounder, has apologised for his silence during the recent anti-discrimination student movement. His apology follows a similar gesture by Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, both of whom faced criticism for not speaking out during the protests. On Wednesday, Shakib addressed the issue through a post on his official Facebook page.

Many Bangladeshi cricketers voiced their concerns about the movement on social media, urging an end to the violence. However, the public had high expectations from Mashrafe and Shakib, both of whom were elected as Members of Parliament (MPs) under the Awami League banner earlier this year. Their silence at the time drew significant backlash.

Mashrafe had already apologised shortly after the movement ended, explaining his political stance and acknowledging his shortcomings. Now, Shakib has followed suit, issuing his apology. He posted his message on Facebook, expressing regret for not speaking up earlier and clarifying his political position.

During Bangladesh’s tour of India, Shakib announced his retirement from Test and T20 cricket, stating his intention to play his final Test match on home soil against South Africa. However, Shakib, who is a defendant in a murder case, has requested security assurances for his safety during the match and his exit from the country. Comments from Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Faruque Ahmed and Youth and Sports Advisor Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan have cast doubt over whether Shakib will receive a proper farewell in Bangladesh.

BCB President Ahmed stated that the board cannot provide individual security for Shakib. A few days later, Sports Advisor Sajeeb Bhuiyan added that given Shakib’s political role as an MP under a controversial government, seeking protection from public anger is inappropriate. He further urged Shakib to clarify his political stance. However, Bhuiyan later assured that Shakib would receive maximum security on home turf.

In his Facebook post, Shakib began by addressing the student movement, saying, “Assalamualaikum, I hold the deepest respect for the love and support I have received from the people of this country. Your prayers and affection have made me the Shakib Al Hasan who is respected around the world. First, I want to honour the students who gave their lives, those who led the anti-discrimination movement, and those who were martyred or injured during the people’s uprising."

“I offer my sincerest condolences to them and their families. No sacrifice can bring back a lost loved one, and nothing can fill the void of losing a child or a sibling. To those who were hurt by my silence during this crucial time, I understand your feelings and offer my deepest apologies. Had I been in your position, I too might have felt the same way,” Shakib stated.

Explaining his political position, Shakib mentioned, “I briefly served as the Member of Parliament for Magura-1. My political involvement was driven by my desire to contribute to the development of my hometown. As you know, in Bangladesh, it’s difficult to influence the development of your area without holding a formal position. My motivation to become an MP came from a desire to improve Magura. However, my primary identity remains as a cricketer for Bangladesh. Wherever I have been, cricket has always been close to my heart."

Shakib also expressed gratitude to his supporters, saying, “It is your support that enabled me to achieve the title of the world’s best all-rounder. Your love and encouragement have shaped my journey. When I took the field for Bangladesh, you all stood with me. Your cheers from the stands and support from tea stalls where people watched matches on TV inspired me to play my best. When I won, we won together; when I lost, you shared that loss with me."

Referring to his upcoming final match, Shakib added, “You all know I will soon be playing my last match. From the beginning of my cricket career to now, it’s been your support that has driven me forward. As I prepare to close this chapter, I want all of you by my side. At this final moment, I want to say goodbye with all of you. When the last story is told, it’s not just about me, but about all of you."

Shakib concluded with heartfelt words, “At my farewell, I want to shake hands with those whose cheers encouraged me to do better. I hope, no, I believe that during this moment, we will all be together, and we will end this story, which is not about me, but about all of us."

END/MSS/RH