Sports Desk:

Shakib al Hasan, former Awami League MP and all-rounder of the Bangladesh National Cricket Team, has conveyed readiness to support investigations into allegations against him, asserting his innocence and intent to return home if security is ensured.

After months of silence, the celebrated all-rounder finally spoke out in an interview with journalish Zaigum Azam, published on Wednesday.

Even before the political upheaval in August, Shakib al Hasan had been at the centre of controversy.

He maintained a noticeably silent stance during the July uprising, which drew public scrutiny.

Furthermore, his past affiliation as a member of parliament from the Awami League only intensified the criticism.

Following the change in the political landscape, Shakib found himself implicated in multiple legal cases.

Shakib told the newspaper that he is “willing to cooperate with any form of investigation” to clear his name from the allegations made against him.

He claimed that he has been made a scapegoat in several business-related cases.

“I am prepared to do whatever is necessary to assist in the investigation into the allegations brought against me,” Shakib asserted.

“If my security is guaranteed, I am ready to return to the country and fully cooperate with a comprehensive investigation.”

In the detailed interview, Shakib also shared insights regarding his cricketing career.

Although he has retired from T20s, he had intended to bid farewell to Test cricket in a match against South Africa last October in Mirpur.

However, the subsequent political shifts, cases and security threats prevented him from making that final appearance.

“I believe I still possess the capability to represent Bangladesh and I know that a majority of the people wish to see me play for the country a little longer,” he said.

He added: “I am confident that I have at least one or two more years left in me.”

Speaking of his future plans, Shakib said: “If given the opportunity, I would like to plan my retirement properly—whether it be through one series, two or another full year. My greatest desire is to retire while playing for my country.”

He added that he has worked hard for years with that dream in mind and is doing everything within his capacity, including maintaining continuous dialogue with the sports adviser, the chief adviser, and the BCB president.

When asked whether joining politics was the right decision, he responded thoughtfully: “Look, if my involvement in politics was a mistake, then anyone else entering politics in the future must also be judged by the same standard. If so, does it mean that joining politics is inherently wrong? Participating in politics is a right of every citizen—anyone can choose that path. Whether or not people vote for you is entirely their decision. When I entered politics, I believed it was the right choice. I still do. My sole intention was to serve the people of Magura.”

On the topic of the BCB’s inability to facilitate his return, Shakib said: “I hold no grievances against anyone. I do not carry resentment. Everyone has their own limitations. It depends on whether you choose to see things positively or complicate matters unnecessarily.

“Will you judge me based on the past 18 years or solely on the last six months? That is for you to decide. If you look through a biased lens, the picture may seem different. But if you choose to see it objectively, everything will become clear.”