Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) Chief Selector, Gazi Ashraf Hossain Lipu, has voiced his disapproval of cricketers engaging in politics.

Ashraf believes there should be clear guidelines preventing national team players from joining political parties, citing potential conflicts of interest when players split their focus between cricket and political activities.

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In a recent interview, wicketkeeper-batter Nurul Hasan Sohan echoed this sentiment, stating that cricketers should not participate in politics during their playing careers.

“With the reforms that have taken place, I believe there must be a process in place regarding whether someone can engage in politics while being on the national team,” Ashraf said.

Regarding Shakib Al Hasan’s involvement in politics, Ashraf acknowledged the possibility of redemption.

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“People make mistakes. There is a chance to correct them too. If Shakib has made a mistake in his journey, he will have the opportunity to understand it himself and bring himself back to the right path,” he added.

Shakib is set to play for Bangladesh in their upcoming tour. His participation in politics has caused concern among national team fans. Before him, former Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza also ran in national elections.

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Both Shakib and Mashrafe were members of parliament for the Awami League, who were recently ousted by student-citizen protesters, leading to the departure of Sheikh Hasina, the former prime minister and leader of the Awami League, from the country.