In a shocking turn of events, Bangladesh cricket star Shakib Al Hasan has been named as one of 147 people accused in a murder case linked to the recent protests and violence that have rocked the country. As reported by Cricbuzz, a case was filed by Rafiqul Islam at Dhaka’s Adabor police station, with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and several former ministers and lawmakers also among the accused.
The alleged murder victim, Mohammad Rubel, was killed on August 7 during the protests that have plunged Bangladesh into political turmoil. Rubel, who owned a garment shop, succumbed to his injuries two days after being shot while participating in a student protest demanding quota reforms in government jobs.
Absence of Shakib Al Hasan during the violence
Shakib, who is either the 27th or 28th accused in the first information report (FIR), was not even present in Bangladesh during the time of the incident. The star all-rounder was playing for Bangla Tigers Mississauga in the Global T20 Canada in Brampton from July 26 to August 9, and prior to that, he was in the USA for the Major League Cricket (MLC) tournament until mid-July.
The complaint filed by Rubel’s father alleges that some of the accused, either directly or indirectly on the instructions of others, opened fire on the protesters, including Rubel, in Dhaka’s Adabor area on August 5.
Changes in Bangladesh Cricket Board
The political turmoil in Bangladesh has led to significant changes in the country’s cricket administration as well. Former national captain Faruque Ahmed has taken over as the new Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president, following the resignation of incumbent Nazmul Hasan Papon on Wednesday, August 21.
As the situation in Bangladesh remains volatile, the charges against Shakib have added to the cricketing community’s concerns. The all-rounder, who is currently engaged in the ongoing Test series against Pakistan, will undoubtedly face scrutiny and pressure as he navigates this legal battle amidst the ongoing political upheaval in his home country.
