NEW DELHI:
Bangladesh
cricket players have shown support for teammate
Shakib Al Hasan
, who faces a murder allegation linked to recent political unrest that resulted in the ousting of former premier
Sheikh Hasina
. The accusation comes from
Rafiqul Islam
, whose son was reportedly among those killed during the unrest. Despite the allegations, Shakib recently played a crucial role in Bangladesh's historic 10-wicket victory over Pakistan in Rawalpindi.
Shakib, 37, is not only a prominent cricket player but also a former lawmaker for Hasina's
Awami League party
.
The murder case against him emerged amid weeks of student-led protests that forced Hasina to flee to India on August 5, ending her 15-year tenure. Her rule was marked by accusations of human rights abuses, including mass detentions and extrajudicial killings of political opponents.
Captain
Najmul Hossain Shanto
dedicated the win, which was Bangladesh's first-ever Test victory over Pakistan, to those who lost their lives in the protests.
"He's been raising the name of Bangladesh in the world for 17 long years," Shanto wrote on Facebook. He also expressed hope for a brighter future in Bangladesh, stating, "Such a case against Shakib bhai is unexpected. In the new Bangladesh, we all want to see something new. I hope all the darkness will pass off and new light will come."
Veteran batsman
Mushfiqur Rahim
shared similar sentiments, showing solidarity with Shakib on social media.
"As a teammate and a brother, I will be there during his tough times, and I do not support the false allegations made against him because I know he would never engage in inhumane actions," Rahim stated.
Shakib has yet to publicly address the murder allegation. The team's morale remains high following their maiden Test win over Pakistan, achieved under challenging conditions on a flat Rawalpindi pitch.
The second and final Test of the series will also be played in Rawalpindi, starting Friday.
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