Sports Desk:

At a time when Bangladesh is celebrating its first-ever Test win over Pakistan and overall 20th win in the format, its match-winning, record-breaking all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is standing in a judiciary crossroad – and netizens including his teammates and even celebrities are showcasing support towards him.

The former top position holder in the ICC Men’s All-Rounder list and former National Parliament member from Awami League, who was criticized and trolled for not speaking out in support of the student-led mass-uprising, has recently been accused of killing garment worker Md Rubel. A case was filed at the Adabar Police Station on August 22 against Shakib Al Hasan, former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, Obaidul Quader and 156 named and 400-500 unidentified people.

This is seemingly jeopardizing Shakib Al Hasan’s future with Bangladesh Cricket, although Shakib’s inclusion in the murder case seemed confusing to netizens from all walks of life.

Eminent music director Prince Mahmud who has been vocal about many social issues, came up with a handful of questions regarding the issue on his Facebook: “Shakib Al Hasan is accused of murder? Was the case intentionally made simpler by doing this? What is the intention? The true offenders remain disconnected. Are these cases being set up to cover up the actual offenders who are denouncing this regime both domestically and internationally? How was someone charged with murder who was not in the nation at the time of the movement?”

Development professional and communications expert Tony Michael wrote: “One of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history, Shakib Al Hasan, has been found guilty of murder. I believe that after Dr Muhammad Yunus, Shakib Al Hasan is the most renowned and respected Bangladeshi person that the world knows. Every Shakib hater in Bangladesh thinks, in my opinion, that the case against Shakib Al Hasan is fabricated, even if they don’t actively discuss it on social media during their tea-time gossip.”

Several of Shakib’s present and former teammates also wrote on their social handles, in support of him. Cricketer Mahedi Hasan wrote: “For 17 years, Bangladesh has been represented in international arenas by a cricket player I know named Shakib Al Hasan. He has brought attention to our nation on a global scale today. Only Allah knows what’s happening and he is the greatest planner, hopefully, he planned the best for Shakib bhai as well.”

Echoing the same, cricketer Sabbir Rahman wrote: “Shakib Al Hasan – the person through him the world of cricket recognizes and respects Bangladesh. My forever respect and love will remain for you.”

Cricketer Anamul Haque Bijoy wrote: “Shakib bhai your contribution to cricket in Bangladesh is undeniable. You have taken Bangladesh cricket to an incredible height on the world map. We are all with you. InShaAllah this darkness will pass. I say this loud and clear that you are innocent, and may Allah bless you.”

Shakib’s former teammate Rubel Hossain wrote: “Undoubtedly one of Bangladesh’s unluckiest politicians, having spent nearly most of his 6-7 months term abroad. As a member of Parliament, you have lost more than gained. I am with you, all the Bangladeshi cricketers are with you. Cricket suits you Shakib, not politics.”

Sara Hossain, unpaid executive director of Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST), has recently said that an influx of cases has been seen for two weeks. “Some of these cases have 30, 40 and more than 50 accused. Many may have anger and resentment, but filing such cases will not work, and will not last – will not even pass the first step. These cases are questioning the movement, and these must be stopped.”