Shakib Al Hasan's farewell Test in jeopardy as all-rounder controversially says, "I'm not going home"

Veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan will not be returning to Bangladesh for his farewell Test match against South Africa at the Shere Bangla Stadium in Dhaka. Shakib Al Hasan’s much-anticipated return to Bangladesh has been hindered by unexpected complications before the Test series against South Africa.

Shakib Al Hasan has been selected for the first of two Test matches against South Africa. The first match is scheduled to be played at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka from October 21. Shakib earlier confirmed that this match will be his final red-ball match for the Bangladesh national cricket team.

Not Sure Where I Am Going Next - Shakib Al Hasan

Shakib Al Hasan was expected to arrive in Dhaka ahead of the Test series against South Africa. However, the chances of his return are now slim. According to reports from ESPNCricinfo, Shakib has stated that he will not travel to the Bangladesh capital, raising doubts about his participation in the first Test.

"I am not sure where I am going next, but it is almost sure that I am not going home," Shakib said, as quoted by ESPNCricinfo.

Students Protest At Mirpur Stadium Despite Shakib Al Hasan's Apology

Before the Kanpur Test, Shakib announced his decision to retire from Test cricket following the Mirpur Test against South Africa. The former skipper expressed his intent to return to Bangladesh to play his final Test match despite legal complications related to a murder case filed against him.

BCB President Faruque Ahmed and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan opposed Shakib's request for safe passage into and out of Bangladesh. However, recently, Asif Mahmud confirmed that there were no obstacles to Shakib's return, ensuring he could safely leave the country after the Test match.

Following the announcement of Shakib's return to Bangladesh, students reacted by burning his effigy in protest. They have also threatened the veteran all-rounder. The group plans to appeal to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to prevent Shakib from entering the stadium during the upcoming series.

Would Like To Pay My Respects To All The Students - Shakib Al Hasan

Shakib publicly apologized in a lengthy Facebook post. He expressed his condolences to the students who lost their lives during the anti-discrimination movement. He honored their sacrifice and extended his deepest sympathies to their families.

"Firstly, I would like to pay my respects to all the students who sacrificed their lives, led the anti-discrimination movement, and were martyred or injured during the people's uprising. I extend my deepest respect and condolences to them and their families," Shakib wrote.

"While no sacrifice can compensate for the loss of a loved one, nothing can fill the void of losing a child or a brother, to those of you who were hurt by my silence during this critical period, I respect your feelings and sincerely apologize. If I were in your place, I too might have been upset."

Also read: Virat Kohli surpasses MS Dhoni in legendary list despite bagging duck in Bengaluru Test