(AFP Photo)
Bangladesh players have united in support of their teammate Shakib Al Hasan, who is facing allegations related to a murder case amid recent political turmoil. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto noted that their historic Test victory over Pakistan, with Shakib contributing three key second-innings wickets, was dedicated to the lives lost in the protests that led to the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
After weeks of student-led protests that forced Sheikh Hasina to escape to India by helicopter on August 5, ending her 15-year rule, Bangladesh faced significant upheaval.
Shakib Al Hasan, 37, who was dismissed from his position as a lawmaker for Hasina’s Awami League party when parliament was dissolved, remains “a valuable asset to our country,” according to Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto in a Facebook post late Monday.
“He’s been raising the name of Bangladesh in the world for 17 long years,” Shanto said.
On Thursday, Rafiqul Islam, whose son was among the hundreds killed in the recent civil unrest, filed a murder case against Shakib Al Hasan and 155 others in Dhaka.
The government of Sheikh Hasina has faced allegations of severe misconduct, including mass detentions and extrajudicial killings of political adversaries. Former ministers and other ex-lawmakers are also implicated in these accusations.
While Shakib has not publicly addressed the case, his teammates have expressed their support for him.
“Such a case against Shakib bhai (brother) is unexpected,” Shanto added.
“In the new Bangladesh, we all want to see something new. I hope all the darkness will pass off and new light will come.”
Veteran batsman Mushfiqur Rahim said on Facebook: “I have said it many times before, and I will say it again, I am proud to play alongside a champion like Shakib.
“As a teammate and a brother, I will be there during his tough times, and I do not support the false allegations made against him because I know he would never engage in inhumane actions.”
On Sunday, Bangladesh secured their first win over Pakistan in 14 Tests with a commanding 10-wicket triumph, despite both teams grappling with the intense heat and a lifeless pitch in Rawalpindi.
The second and final Test of the series is scheduled to take place in Rawalpindi starting Friday.
