Shakib Al Hasan eyes emotional farewell Test as Bangladesh supports security measures

Former Bangladesh captain, Shakib Al Hasan, is likely to make his Test cricket swansong in front of home fans as he prepares for a farewell series against South Africa later this month.

Despite announcing his retirement from Tests last month, Shakib has expressed a desire to play his final match in Bangladesh, a wish that may soon become reality with strong support from Bangladesh's Youth and Sports Advisor, Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain.

Bhuyain, speaking to Cricbuzz, voiced his commitment to fulfilling Shakib’s dream, highlighting the player's contributions to Bangladesh cricket. “He (Shakib) is a player who has contributed a lot to the country. Since he wishes to play his final Test match in Bangladesh, I personally hope he gets that opportunity,” Bhuiyan said.

The announcement comes amidst ongoing security concerns, as Shakib, also a politician, is currently embroiled in a legal case involving allegations of his connection to a murder. The cricketer raised concerns for his safety during Bangladesh's second Test match against India in Kanpur last month. Addressing the issue, Bhuyain assured that the country would take all necessary steps to protect Shakib.

“We will absolutely provide the highest level of security for our players. If there are any allegations against anyone, that is a different issue. I cannot comment on that, as it falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Law. However, we have already committed to ensuring Shakib Al Hasan’s security, and we will honour that commitment,” he said.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is making efforts to bring Shakib back for the two-match Test series against South Africa. A BCB official told Cricbuzz that Shakib is expected to confirm his participation in the coming days. BCB president, Faruque Ahmed, who had previously indicated the board could not guarantee security for Shakib, has since revised his stance, now assuring that safety measures will be in place for the cricket star.

“I have had communication with Shakib, and he has a good chance to retire at home,” Faruque said following a BCB meeting at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Monday. He emphasized that while certain legal aspects are out of his control, the board is ready to take responsibility for Shakib’s protection in stadium and hotel environments.

“I cannot say about the legal thing, and I am talking with the highest authority. I am a small person, and the matter-related Shakib needs to come from the government. There are security agencies and government along with advisors, and they will decide to take full responsibility of Shakib.”

“Our responsibility is to take the player into the hotel and inside the stadium while he is playing or practicing, and I think we can take that responsibility,” he added.