Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan will not feature for the Rangpur Riders in the upcoming Global Super League (GSL), set to begin in Guyana on 10 July, as the franchise opted against signing him due to the current “circumstances” in the country.
The announcement was made by Rangpur Riders’ team director, Shanian Tanim, during a sponsor signing ceremony held in Dhaka. He stated that although Shakib remains a top-tier cricketer capable of commanding a place in any franchise side, the decision not to include him was taken by the team management after weighing the national political climate.
“Shakib Al Hasan is still one of the most valuable players, not only in Bangladesh, but in any franchise league in the world,” said Tanim. “It is not that we didn’t want him in the squad, but we are fully aware of the situation in the country at this moment.”
Shakib, a former member of the previous government, has not returned to Bangladesh since the widespread student-led protests that swept the country last year. Although no formal directive was issued regarding his inclusion, the team management decided to avoid potential complications.
“We did not receive any instructions from anyone regarding taking Shakib Al Hasan in the squad. It was a decision made solely by the team management,” Tanim clarified. “We only acknowledge Shakib as a cricketer — not his other identities. He is a player who can contribute in all departments — batting, bowling, and as a senior figure. But given the prevailing situation, we felt it was best not to move forward with him.”
While the decision might leave a void in the Rangpur setup, the franchise expressed hope that the team could still compete strongly without the seasoned campaigner.
The GSL, a newly launched T20 tournament, is drawing attention from franchises and players worldwide. However, the absence of high-profile players like Shakib due to off-field circumstances highlights the increasingly complex intersection of politics and sport in the region.
