Shakib Al Hasan faces murder charge amid Bangladesh’s political upheaval: Report

Bangladesh cricket team all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been named in a murder case, according to a report by the Dhaka Tribune. The case, filed by Rafiqul Islam, relates to the death of his son Rubel, who was shot during ongoing political protests in Bangladesh. The legal proceedings have raised significant concern in the country, affecting not only prominent figures from sports and entertainment but also political leaders.

Shakib Al Hasan named as 28th accused in murder case

The murder case stems from the tragic death of Rubel on August 7, 2024. Rubel was reportedly shot in the chest and abdomen during a rally on Ring Road in Adabor, Dhaka. He was immediately taken to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries the same day. The case, filed with the Adabor police station, names Shakib Al Hasan as the 28th accused, alongside popular Bangladeshi actor Ferdous Ahmed, who was the 55th accused. Both Shakib and Ahmed were former Awami League MPs in Bangladesh's parliament. Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who resigned and fled the country on August 5, was also named in the case, alongside 154 others and 400-500 unidentified persons, according to the Dhaka Tribune.

Changes in Bangladesh Cricket Board leadership

In the midst of this turmoil, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has undergone a significant leadership change. On Wednesday, ex-skipper Faruque Ahmed was named BCB president following the resignation of Nazmul Hassan. Hassan, a close ally of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, stepped down after serving as BCB president since 2012. His resignation came after months of student-led protests that resulted in more than 450 deaths. Hassan's tenure was initially set to end in 2025. Faruque Ahmed, who briefly captained Bangladesh in 1994 and played seven one-day internationals, was elected by the board’s directors and has taken charge immediately.

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This leadership shift comes at a crucial time for Bangladesh cricket as the sport grapples with both political upheaval and ongoing turmoil.