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Shakib Al Hasan Issues Apology Amidst Criticism Over Silence During Bangladesh Political Tension

Sakshi Sharma∙ Updated: Oct 10 2024, 10:40 AM

Shakib Al Hasan issues public apology (Source: ICC/x.com)Shakib Al Hasan issues public apology (Source: ICC/x.com)

In a significant development, Bangladesh star cricketer Shakib Al Hasan issued a public apology this week after facing heavy criticism for remaining silent during the recent political turmoil in his home country. 

In a heartfelt statement posted on Facebook, the 37-year-old acknowledged the grief and frustration felt by those affected by the student protests and extended his condolences to the families of the victims.

Shakib Al Hasan Requests Public Apology Ahead Of South Africa Tour

Shakib Al Hasan's apology follows after some demanded that he should clarify his stance on the political situation. The controversy intensified after Rafiqul Islam, whose son Rubel was among those who died in the protests, filed a murder case against him in August. Islam alleged that Shakib’s silence implied indifference to the tragedy.

In his post, Shakib wrote, "At first, I respectfully remember all the students who sacrificed their lives or were injured while leading the anti-discrimination student movement. I offer my deepest respect and condolences to them and their families. Although no sacrifice can ever fully compensate for the loss of loved ones, the pain of losing a child or a brother is irreplaceable. For those of you who felt hurt or disappointed by my silence during this critical time, I sincerely apologise acknowledging your feelings. If I were in your position, perhaps I would have felt the same way."He continued by addressing those disappointed by his silence. 

The all-rounder had previously mentioned his wish to play his farewell Test match at home in Mirpur, during Bangladesh’s upcoming series against South Africa. However, he also stated that he would require security clearance to return to Bangladesh for the match, given the heightened security concerns. 

Shakib further appealed to his fans to stand by him in his final Test appearance. "As you know, I will soon be playing my final match. In my final match, in the closing chapter of this story, I want you all by my side. I want to bid farewell with all of you standing with me. I hope, and I don't just hope, I believe that in this final moment, you all will stand with me. You all will be there to close the story, a story where the true heroes are not me, but all of you."

Amid the controversy, Shakib has also retired from Test Cricket, marking the end of a significant era in Bangladeshi cricket. Currently, he is playing for the Los Angeles Waves in the NCL USA T10 League, where he continues to be active despite the setbacks and controversies.