Shakib Al Hasan
Shakib Al Hasan: Saviour or Disruptor?
Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh's most accomplished cricketer, finds himself at the center of a swirling debate regarding his commitment to the national team. His return to the team for the second Test starting tomorrow against Sri Lanka, after missing earlier matches in the series, has reignited questions about his priorities and the impact his sporadic appearances have on the team.
The left-handed all-rounder last appeared in a First-Class match a year ago, during a Test against Ireland in Dhaka. Now, after a year-long hiatus from the longest format of cricket, he is set to play another Test without any intervening First-Class appearances. He has not played any international matches in 2024, despite Bangladesh having played seven matches. While the reasons for his absence remain unclear, his abrupt end to the 2023 World Cup was due to a finger injury, which also caused him to miss the home Test series against New Zealand and the subsequent away T20I and ODI series against the same opponent following Bangladesh's disastrous World Cup outing.
Shakib Al Hasan diagnosed with retinal condition in left eye
Shakib's undeniable talent and past contributions are unquestioned. He is a genuine all-rounder, capable of winning matches with both bat and ball. However, in recent years, his appearances for the national team have been inconsistent, with breaks taken for personal reasons, injuries, and even political activities (while the Bangladesh team was busy playing against New Zealand in New Zealand late last year, Shakib was actively campaigning for the national election in his constituency, Magura district). This inconsistency has led to a sense of unease and frustration among fans and experts alike.
During the recent Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), Shakib faced an eye issue that required medical attention. This issue reportedly affected him during the World Cup, contributing to his lean batting display, as he hinted in an interview with a cricket website. Despite this, he continued playing in the BPL, leading to rumors that he would take a break after the tournament. However, even before the BPL concluded, he contradicted earlier statements from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) by claiming that he had no issues with his eyes.
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Ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka, Shakib declared himself available, and the BCB promptly included him in the squad. This sudden turnaround has raised eyebrows and fueled the perception that Shakib dictates his own terms when it comes to playing for the national team. With his standout performances over the years, he made himself a difficult figure to criticize, though, the performance doesn't.
His absence from the earlier matches of the Sri Lanka series was attributed to personal activities, including brand endorsements. While these pursuits are understandable, their prioritization over national duty has left some questioning his commitment.
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Shakib's leadership during the 2023 World Cup, which he himself acknowledged as one of Bangladesh's worst performances in the tournament, also comes under scrutiny. The team lost seven out of nine matches, including a shocking defeat to the Netherlands. This poor showing has led some to question his captaincy and ability to lead the team effectively.
Now, with his return for the second Test, Shakib's intentions and potential contribution are under the microscope. Is he returning to be the savior of a struggling team who lost the first Test by a margin of over 300 runs, or will his sporadic appearances further disrupt the rhythm and morale that the team is trying to build?
There are arguments to be made on both sides. On the one hand, Shakib's talent and experience are undeniable assets to the team. His presence can boost the morale of the players and provide much-needed stability in the batting and bowling departments. On the other hand, his inconsistent availability can disrupt team dynamics and make it difficult for the team management to build a cohesive unit.
Ultimately, the question of whether Shakib, in recent years, is a savior or disruptor for the Bangladesh national team remains open. His performance in the upcoming Test and his future commitment to the team will be crucial in determining the answer.
BCB Special Committee meets with Shakib, Tamim to evaluate World Cup performance
The special committee, constituted by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) in late November last year, convened with Shakib Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal to analyze the disappointing performance of the Bangladesh team in the World Cup. However, the committee has not disclosed the outcome of these discussions.
Enayat Hossain Siraj, the convenor of the committee, indicated that the media department of BCB would host a press conference to unveil the results.
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“These matters are not something that can be divulged to the media at this moment,” Enayet Hossain stated during a media interaction in Sylhet, where Shakib and Tamim are busy for their teams in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).
“Because this has been handled very confidentially. When the time is right, the information will be shared collectively, and the public will also be informed. We have held separate discussions with both Shakib and Tamim,” he added.
BCB to Discuss Bangladesh’s World Cup Disappointment with Shakib
It is understood that the BCB president is set to travel to Indonesia for a meeting of the Asian Cricket Council, with his return expected in early February.
The BCB is anticipated to conduct a board meeting at that time, during which the findings of the special committee regarding Bangladesh's performance in the 2023 World Cup will be disclosed.
Enayet Hossain confirmed that the committee he leads has completed its work, and they will submit their findings to the board. This committee has two more members— Akram Khan and Mahbub Anam.
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In the previous World Cup, Bangladesh secured victory in only two out of the nine matches they played. Shakib, who captained the team during the tournament, labeled it as the worst World Cup ever for the Bangladesh team.
BCB to Discuss Bangladesh’s World Cup Disappointment with Shakib
Akram Khan, a member of the committee formed by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to analyze the Bangladesh team's performance in the 2023 World Cup, said they will now engage in discussions with Shakib Al Hasan.
Bangladesh endured a dismal World Cup in India, losing seven out of nine matches. Shakib captained the team in this tournament, labeling it as Bangladesh's worst World Cup performance.
After more than two weeks since the Bangladesh team returned home from India, the BCB established a committee to review the World Cup performance and identify the reasons behind the team's below-par performance.
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“We have completed 90% of our work around a month ago,” Akram Khan told the media on Sunday. “We had a tour in New Zealand, and now BPL is underway. We are yet to sit with 2-3 individuals, including Shakib. We will go there (Sylhet) tomorrow.”
The BCB announced the three-member ‘Special Committee’ on November 29 last year, with Enayet Hossain Siraj appointed as the convener and Akram and Mahbubul Anam as members.
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The committee was formed amid a report by a private TV station claiming that a national team player was physically abused by the head coach during the World Cup. Although the committee was not initially tasked with investigating this claim, it is expected that they may address the issue.
The report did not mention the name of any cricketer, but speculation surfaced that the cricketer in question was the national team spinner, Nasum Ahmed. Akram did not clarify if they are also tasked with the investigation of that allegation.
“We are asked to analyze the performance,” Akram said. “We will inform the board about what was negative and what was positive. Then the board will decide how we will proceed.”
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Earlier, Akram said, when asked about the alleged abuse of a cricketer by the head coach, that they would talk to the involved individuals. On December 5, the committee sat with Nasum and talked to him about the World Cup. However, it’s not clear if Nasum was asked anything about that alleged abuse.
BPL 2024: Babar, Omarzai Propel Riders to Victory in Low-Scoring Affair vs Strikers
Pakistan's star batter, Babar Azam, and Afghanistan's Azmatullah Omarzai orchestrated a stunning seventh-wicket partnership, contributing 87 runs to guide Rangpur Riders to their first win of the new season of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) on Tuesday (January 23, 2024).
In pursuit of a below-par target of 121 runs, the Riders found themselves in a precarious position, losing six wickets for just 39 runs. The prospect of defeat loomed large at that juncture.
Dushan Hemantha, a Sri Lankan spinner, took three wickets conceding 20 runs in four overs. All of his three wickets were notched up in a single over.
Read more: ICC U-19 World Cup: Bangladesh taste first victory beating Ireland by six wickets
While a defeat seemed a matter of time for the Riders, Babar, making his first appearance in this BPL season, and Omarzai had different intentions. They forged an unbeaten partnership of 87 runs, steering the Riders to a remarkable comeback victory.
Both Babar and Omarzai remained not out, scoring 56 and 47, respectively. The Riders reached the target with four wickets in hand and 10 balls to spare.
In the first innings, Sylhet Strikers batted first and were held to 120 for eight wickets. Benny Howell and Ben Cutting top-scored with 37 each, but the remaining batters struggled against the Riders' formidable bowling attack.
Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, the Strikers' captain, opted to promote himself to number three, seemingly considering his limited bowling capacity due to fitness concerns. However, the plan backfired as he departed after contributing only six runs.
Mahedi Hasan and Ripon Mondal claimed two wickets each for the Riders.
Shakib Al Hasan, a key player for the Riders, was absent from the match as he is currently seeking medical attention in Singapore for an eye issue that has persisted since the World Cup 2023. His return date for this year's BPL remains uncertain.
Read more: BPL 2024: Chattogram Challengers, Khulna Tigers secure convincing wins
Shakib Heads to Singapore for Eye Treatment, Further BPL Participation in Jeopardy
Bangladesh cricket star Shakib Al Hasan, currently representing Rangpur Riders in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), is scheduled to fly to Singapore on Sunday for a medical consultation concerning his persisting eye problems.
Ahead of the BPL commencement on Friday, Shakib returned from the UK after seeking medical advice for his eyes. However, it appears that the cricketer continues to grapple with discomfort in his eyes.
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Jalal Yunus, the Cricket Operations Chairman of BCB, confirmed that Shakib is going to Singapore to see a doctor.
“Yes, he is traveling to Singapore tomorrow,” he said on Saturday. “Whether he can continue playing in the BPL depends on the doctors' recommendations. He will have to follow their advice. BPL will miss Shakib.”
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Shakib has been contending with eye issues since the late last year's World Cup in India. In media interviews, he expressed the difficulty he faced in performing due to eye-related problems.
Despite this, Shakib played for the Riders on Saturday and took two wickets against Fortune Barisal.
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“Our team highly values Shakib,” remarked Nurul Hasan Shohan, Shakib's captain in the BPL, during a press conference on Saturday. “I believe he has been struggling with his eyes for the last few days. The doctors will determine his condition.”
Shakib’s election campaign in Magura in full force
Awami League-nominated candidate for Magura-1, superstar cricketer Shakib Al Hasan, sought all-out support from all for the development of the constituency.
Shakib is busy with election campaign organised by the local unit of Awami League.
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He was seen seeking votes from local voters while visiting villages, unions and areas under the constituency that includes Atharokada, Raghabdair, Moghi union in Sadar upazila.
Massive crowds turned out to see the cricketer while some greeted Shakib with flowers.
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He also urged people to exercise their franchise at the polling stations on January 7.
Magura Returning officer Abu Naser Beg said some 3,99,615 people — 2,00,707 males and 1,98,907 females — are scheduled to exercise their franchise under Magura-1 (Magura-Sripur) constituency.
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Necessary training was provided to the election officials and staff, he said.
Shakib submitted his nomination paper at the office of District Commissioner and District Returning Officer Mohammed Abu Naser Beg in Magura on November 30.
Shakib will contest the parliamentary election for the first time.
Election Commission issues show cause notice to Shakib Al Hasan
The Election Commission (EC) today (November 30, 2023) issued a show cause notice to Shakib Al Hasan, star cricketer and Awami League-nominated candidate for Magura-1 constituency, for breaching electoral code of conduct.
Shakib has also been asked to appear before the election search committee in-person tomorrow afternoon and reply to the notice.
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The notice, signed by Joint District and Sessions Judge Satyabrata Shikder, who has been leading the Magura-1 election search committee, said, “You, Shakib Al Hasan, entered Magura city with a convoy from Kamarkhali area on November 29 after being declared as Awami League-nominated candidate from Magura-1 constituency.”
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The notice says that Shakib attended civic receptions, disrupting traffic on the road. Several media outlets reported on the incident.
“By doing so, you have violated the provisions of sections 6(d), 8(a), 10(a) and 12 of the Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates,” according to the notice.
Shakib has been asked to reply in writing as to why legal action should not be taken against him for breaching the electoral code of conduct.
Read more: Magura district welcomes Shakib warmly as MP candidate
Shakib out of ICC World Cup 2023
Bangladesh captain, Shakib Al Hasan, is out of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 in India after sustaining an injury in his left index finger during yesterday's (November 06, 2023) match against Sri Lanka.
A subsequent X-ray revealed a fracture, leaving the celebrated all-rounder sidelined for Bangladesh’s final match of the tournament against Australia, set to be held in Pune on November 11.
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National Team Physio Bayjedul Islam Khan provided insight into the ordeal, stating, “Shakib was struck on his left index finger early in his innings but continued to bat with supportive taping and painkillers.”
“He underwent an emergency X-ray in Delhi after the game which confirmed the fracture on the left PIP joint. Recovery is estimated at three to four weeks. He will leave for Bangladesh today to begin his rehab,” he said.
Despite the adversity, Shakib shone, scoring 82 off 65 balls and steering his team to a hard-fought three-wicket triumph against Sri Lanka in yesterday's World Cup match.
Read more: ICC World Cup 2023: Bangladesh hold their nerve to see off Sri Lanka in tense encounter
ICC World Cup 2023: Cricket world comes down hard on Shakib for getting Mathews 'Timed Out'
Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan made history in international cricket in somewhat dubious fashion after successfully appealing to get Sri Lanka's Angelo Mathews as the first cricketer to be given out "Timed Out". However, the cricketing community's response has been less than favorable.
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Following Sadeera Samarawickrama's dismissal by Shakib, Mathews took more than two minutes to face the first ball, violating ICC rules. Subsequently, Shakib appealed for a Timed Out dismissal, resulting in Mathews being given out for a duck without facing a delivery.
"Well, that wasn’t cool,” remarked former South African pacer Dale Steyn on X (formerly Twitter).
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Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir labeled it "pathetic". "Absolutely pathetic what happened in Delhi today!" he expressed on X.
"It’s against the spirit of the game, that’s what I feel about this," stated former Pakistan pacer Waqar Younis in an immediate reaction.
SkySports described it as a "controversial" dismissal, although it did not violate any rules.
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Charith Asalanka, who went on to score a century after Mathews' dismissal, remarked that it went against the spirit of the game. However, he acknowledged that it fell within the rules of cricket.
Mathews encountered an issue with the strap of his helmet, leading to the delay. He was unable to fasten it properly and requested a new helmet. By the time he was ready, two minutes had passed.
ICC World Cup 2023: Shakib leaves team in India for personal practice sessions in Dhaka
Bangladesh's ODI Captain, Shakib Al Hasan, who is currently leading the team in the ongoing ICC World Cup in India, returned home on Wednesday (October 25, 2023) for a personal practice session with his childhood coach.
Bangladesh has played five matches in the ICC World Cup 2023 so far, losing four of them.
Shakib has participated in four matches in the Cricket World Cup, missing the match against India due to an injury. He secured six wickets and scored only 56 runs in four matches, which is below his usual performance level.
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The reason for the all-rounder's departure to Dhaka, leaving the team in India and the decision to practice in Dhaka, remains unclear. This unusual move raises questions about the practice facilities provided for the national team.
The Bangladesh team boasts one of the most extensive coaching panels in the World Cup, led by head coach Chandika Hathurusingha. Bangladesh’s next match in the World Cup is on October 28 against the Netherlands in Kolkata. On October 31, Bangladesh will take on Pakistan at the same venue. Shakib is expected to join the team before the Netherlands clash.