BCB won’t take responsibility for Shakib’s security
On the day before the second Test against India, Shakib Al Hasan announced his retirement from Test and T20 cricket.
The experienced all-rounder stated that he would play his final Test in October, against South Africa at home. However, before playing the series, Shakib wants security assurances to ensure he feels safe when he returns to Bangladesh.
In a press conference, Shakib mentioned that the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and relevant security officials are handling the matter, and his return to the country depends on their decision. However, despite supporting Shakib in his legal battles, the BCB will not take responsibility for his personal security. BCB President Faruque Ahmed confirmed this after a board meeting on Thursday.
Speaking to the media, Faruque said that Shakib must make his own decision regarding security. The BCB does not have the capability to provide personal protection. “The security issue is beyond our control. He will have to decide for himself. We cannot comment on this from the board. The BCB does not have the capacity to provide personal security to any individual,” said the head of Bangladesh cricket.
Faruque expressed his wish for Shakib to play his final Test match on home soil but believes only the highest levels of government can provide the necessary security. “If Shakib can play his last Test here, I believe, like him, there couldn’t be a better end. The issue of security must come from the higher levels of government. The BCB is not an agency like the police or RAB. Security matters must come from the government,” added Faruque.
Faruque also stated that he respects Shakib’s decision to retire. He did not request the former captain to reconsider his retirement, saying, “Shakib is going through a very tough time in his life right now. I didn’t try to persuade him. He feels this is the right time to retire, and I respect his decision. I don’t have much more to say on this matter.”
Regarding his security concerns, Shakib said, “I want to be able to go and play, and feel safe. When I need to go abroad, I want to be able to do so without any issues. The board is looking into it. Those involved are assessing the situation. They will probably make a decision, based on which I can return to the country and at least retire from the Test format smoothly.”
Shakib has been away from the country for a long time. After playing in the T20 World Cup, he returned to Bangladesh but left for the USA within two days to play in Major League Cricket (MLC). He then captained the Mississauga Bangla Tigers in the Global T20 in Canada. Following that, Shakib played a Test series in Pakistan. After that series, he played one match for Surrey in the County Championship in England before joining the Bangladesh team in India.
