Exiled Bangladeshi cricket star willing to return, face murder trial if safety assured
Former Bangladesh cricket captain Shakib Al Hasan has expressed a willingness to return home to face criminal charges, provided the government guarantees his safety. The government has rejected requests for special treatment, stating that the law applies equally to all citizens.
Why it matters
The case highlights the intersection of sports, politics, and the rule of law in a post-uprising political climate in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh cricket Shakib Al Hasan has said he is willing to return home and face criminal proceedings against him if the government guarantees his safety, according to an exclusive interview with Reuters.Shakib has been living in exile in the United States since former prime minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted in a student-led uprising in August 2024. The former Bangladesh captain, who was also an Awami League lawmaker under Hasina, has not returned home since.“If I get the clearance from the government that my security will be ensured, I am happy to go back, face the court trial and everything that's needed to be done,” Shakib told Reuters by phone from Sri Lanka.He said he believed the allegations against him were baseless and wanted the opportunity to return and defend himself in court.
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