Dhaka:n a surprising move, celebrated Bangladeshi cricketer Shakib Al Hasan has officially stepped into the realm of politics, expressing his intention to contest in the upcoming general elections scheduled for January 7. Seeking a nomination from the ruling Bangladesh Awami League, Shakib’s foray into politics marks a distinctive turn in his illustrious career.
Amid the current political landscape, major opposition parties have announced their boycott of the impending polls. The ruling party’s joint secretary general, Bahauddin Nasim, acknowledged Shakib’s popularity, particularly among the youth, as the cricket luminary took nomination forms to vie for seats in three constituencies.
“He is a celebrity and has great popularity among the country’s youth,”* remarked Nasim, extending a warm welcome to the cricketer’s political endeavor.
While Shakib’s candidature is yet to receive formal confirmation, it hinges on the ruling party’s parliamentary board, presided over by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The cricket all-rounder eyes a seat either in his southwestern hometown of Magura or in the capital city, Dhaka.
With Hasina at the helm for the past 15 years, the upcoming elections are anticipated to be boycotted by significant opposition factions. The Prime Minister, although criticized for a perceived firm governance style, remains a formidable contender for a fourth term if the opposition’s boycott strategy materializes.
While the intersection of cricket and politics is not uncommon in South Asia, where the sport enjoys massive popularity, Shakib’s transition during his active playing career is notably rare. Drawing parallels, former cricket captain Mashrafe Mortaza delved into politics in 2018, successfully securing a parliamentary seat.
Currently nursing a finger injury, Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh’s regular captain across formats, opted out of the upcoming Test series against New Zealand. The injury, sustained during a World Cup match against Sri Lanka, attracted attention due to an unusual appeal against Angelo Mathews, resulting in cricket’s first-ever timed out incident.
By AFP
