The Bangladesh Cricket Board has highlighted fans chanting Shakib Al Hasan’s name at Shaheed Chandu Stadium in Bogura. The board shared a reel on its verified Facebook page. The video shows supporters shouting “Shakib, Shakib” from the stands.
Many fans carried his photos. Some held placards with messages. One placard read, “I Miss You Shakib 75.” The BCB wrote in the caption that fans were chanting his name and called it a special moment for cricket lovers.
The chants came during the BCL One-Day match between East Zone and Central Zone. The show of support comes at a time when the board is working on Shakib’s return.
On January 24, the BCB held a board meeting. The issue of Shakib’s comeback was discussed. Several BCB directors, including Asif Akbar, gave positive signs about bringing him back. Some hinted that he could return in the ODI series against Pakistan on March 11, 13 and 15.
The board feels hopeful after the Home Minister said cases filed after August 5 will be reviewed.
Still, Youth and Sports State Minister Aminul Haque shared a different view. He said Shakib must clear the cases against him through legal steps before he can play for Bangladesh again. The same rule applies to Mashrafe Bin Mortaza. Both were Members of Parliament from the former Awami League government. After the fall of the government on August 5, 2024, several cases were filed against them.
Shakib has not played international cricket since October that year. But he continues to play in franchise leagues outside the country.
In the last year and a half, the BCB did not allow fans to enter stadiums with Shakib’s photos or placards. Now the board itself has shared a video of fans cheering for him. The incident took place in Bogura, known as a BNP stronghold.
