Former Bangladesh cricket captain and all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been named as one of the accused in a murder case linked to the recent political violence in Bangladesh, according to a report by ESPNcricinfo on August 23. The case, filed at Dhaka’s Adabor police station by Rafiqul Islam, involves 147 individuals, including Shakib, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and several former ministers and lawmakers.
Murder Case Amid Political Turmoil
The case revolves around the death of Islam’s son, Rubel, who was shot during a protest on August 5. Rubel succumbed to his injuries after being hospitalized for two days. The protests, which escalated into violence, were part of the widespread political unrest in Bangladesh, leading to significant turmoil in the country.
Despite the accusations, Shakib has a solid alibi. He was not in Bangladesh during the protests or on August 5, as he was actively participating in the Global T20 Canada league, representing the Bangla Tigers Mississauga in Brampton from July 26 to August 9. Prior to that, he was in the USA for Major League Cricket until mid-July.
Political Shifts and Cricket Board Changes
The political unrest in Bangladesh has also led to a change in leadership, with Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus taking over as chief adviser of the interim government after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina reportedly fled the country. This shift in power has brought about significant changes within the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) as well. Former national captain Faruque Ahmed has assumed the role of chairman, following the resignation of the previous chairman, Nazmul Hasan Papon, on Wednesday.
The inclusion of Shakib Al Hasan in the murder case has raised eyebrows, given his absence from the country during the alleged incident. The situation remains fluid, with further developments expected in both the political and cricketing spheres in Bangladesh.