In a recent development, it has been understood that Bangladesh superstar Shakib Al Hasan may not play his farewell Test match in the upcoming series opener against South Africa despite being named in the squad.

Shakib has reportedly revealed that he is unlikely to travel to Dhaka, the venue for the first Test between Bangladesh and South Africa. The match is scheduled to begin on October 21.

“I am not sure where I will go next, but I will almost certainly not return home,” Shakib told ESPNcricinfo via WhatsApp.

The 37-year-old, who was scheduled to board a flight from Dubai after transiting from New York, was instructed not to do so. While Shakib’s flight is scheduled for Thursday afternoon (October 17), it is doubtful that he will reach Dhaka.

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Protests have resumed in anticipation of Shakib Al Hasan’s arrival in Bangladesh

Shakib had earlier expressed concern for his safety upon returning to Bangladesh, especially after several Awami League leaders were detained following the government’s effective resignation on August 5, ending its 15-year rule.

Additionally, Shakib Al Hasan faced charges related to a murder case that occurred during the protests. Although he had been promised safe passage back to Bangladesh, reports suggest that protests have resumed. An organization called ‘Mirpur Chhatro Janata’ also notified the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) that protests would be held if Shakib takes part in the match in Mirpur.

Shakib was apparently included in the Bangladesh Test squad for the match against the Proteas after the selectors said they received a “green signal” to select him, but given the current scenario, his involvement remains ambiguous.

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