Shakib Al Hasan's Controversial Farewell: Cricket and Politics Collide

Supporters of Bangladesh's cricket legend, Shakib Al Hasan, faced a violent confrontation from rival protesters opposing his farewell test against South Africa. The chaos outside the Dhaka stadium highlights the political complexities surrounding Shakib, who also served as a member of parliament under a now-fugitive Prime Minister.

Violence erupted outside Dhaka's Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Sunday as fans of cricket icon Shakib Al Hasan clashed with opponents over his planned farewell test against South Africa. Armed with sticks and bamboo, protesters opposed to his match attacked Shakib's supporters, prompting swift intervention by army personnel to restore order.

Shakib Al Hasan, a cricket legend and former member of parliament with political ties to Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India amidst political turmoil, finds his farewell match steeped in political controversy. His silence during the protests that ousted Hasina has fueled public anger, complicating his return for the test match in Dhaka.

The cricketer, regarded as one of Bangladesh's finest, retired from test cricket in September after an illustrious career featuring 71 tests, 247 ODIs, and 129 T20Is. As his political and sporting worlds collide, the interim government's attempts to stabilize power seem increasingly fraught with discord.

(With inputs from agencies.)