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Shakib Al Hasan has expressed regret for remaining silent during the Anti-discrimination Student Movement.
In a lengthy Facebook post on Wednesday night, the 37-year-old cricketer also explained his involvement in politics and his reasons for becoming a member of parliament.
As he prepares to play his final Test match in Bangladesh, the experienced all-rounder seeks support from fans and supporters, according to bdnews24.com.
Shakib and Mashrafe Bin Mortaza faced widespread criticism on social media and across the country for their silent roles during the student protests that led to the fall of Sheikh Hasina regime. Both won their seats in parliament on Awami League tickets.
Mashrafe later admitted in an interview that he had failed to meet people’s expectations.
More than two months after the political shift, Shakib has finally apologised for his inaction.
Sakib said, "I respectfully remember those students who sacrificed their lives in this movement, and I extend my heartfelt condolences to their families."
"To those hurt or saddened by my absence during this crisis, I respect your feelings and am deeply sorry. If I were in your place, I might have felt the same," he added.
The past few days have also seen much discussion about Shakib's upcoming farewell Test. Ahead of the second Test during India's tour, he announced his intention to bid farewell to this format with a Test match against South Africa on home soil.
However, uncertainty surrounds his return due to a murder case against him. Shakib's name appears as number 28 among 156 accused in the case filed concerning the murder of garment worker Rubel.
Speaking on Shakib’s return for the farewell Test, Bangladesh Cricket Board, or BCB, President Faruk Ahmed said the board could not guarantee his safety.
Youth Advisor Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain later mentioned that while Shakib could receive protection as a national player, it would be difficult to assure security if public anger persisted.
In his Facebook post, Shakib elaborated on his brief term as an MP for the Magura-1 constituency, explaining that his involvement in politics stemmed from a desire to contribute to the development of his hometown.
"Without a specific responsibility, it is quite challenging to have a direct impact on my area's progress, which is why I was keen on becoming an MP," he added.
Following the government's fall, Shakib's political chapter has also ended. He now wishes to focus more on his identity as a cricketer.
Shakib said, "At the end of the day, I am a cricketer for Bangladesh. Wherever I have been, I have always carried cricket in my heart. Your support has taken me to the position of the world's best all-rounder."
He continued, “Your love and support made me the Shakib Al Hasan I am today. Whenever I picked up my bat for Bangladesh, you were with me. The cheers from the galleries inspired me to play better.”
Shakib said he would return to Bangladesh for his final Test and requested his fans to join him on this journey.
“You know that I will soon play my last match. The story of this cricket journey is written by you. So, in my final match, I want you by my side. Together, we will conclude the story whose hero is not me, but all of you,” said Shakib.
After the Test series in India, Shakib is now playing in the National T10 Cricket League in the United States, where his wife and children are also settled.