Shakib Al Hasan assured of safe return to Bangladesh: Details
What's the story
Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh's most celebrated cricketer and a member of the fallen Awami League government, is set to return home for the Test series against South Africa next month.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has expressed confidence in his safe return.
This will be Shakib's first visit since the political upheaval in his country.
He was implicated in a murder case last month but was not present during the anti-government protests that led to this charge.
Dual responsibilities
Shakib's political role and cricketing commitments
Shakib, who joined politics in January this year, was serving as a Member of Parliament when the anti-government protests erupted.
However, he was not in Bangladesh during this period due to his cricketing commitments.
He was playing in the Global T20 League in Canada when Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned on August 5 amid widespread protests and left the country.
Since then, Shakib has been involved in various cricket tournaments abroad.
Official assurance
BCB confident of Shakib's safe return
Shahriar Nafees, the head of the BCB's cricket operations, has assured that Shakib will not face any issues upon his return.
He stated that Bangladesh's interim government has made it clear that Shakib won't be "harassed."
This statement comes after Asif Nazrul, Bangladesh's law adviser, expressed hope last month that Shakib would not be arrested in connection with the case.
Notably, Shakib is currently engaged in Bangladesh's two-Test series against hosts India.
Public reaction
Shakib's silence on protests draws criticism
Despite assurances from officials, Shakib's silence during the student-led mass protests in July and August has drawn criticism.
While his teammates have voiced their concerns about the protests and loss of lives, especially students, Shakib has remained silent.
This has led to a mixed public reaction toward his impending return to Bangladesh for the upcoming Test series against South Africa.