In a startling incident that has highlighted the intersection of sports and politics, former Bangladesh cricket captain and current Member of Parliament, Shakib Al Hasan, was subjected to explicit verbal abuse during the Global T20 Canada (GT20) tournament. This event has garnered significant attention, especially in light of the ongoing political turmoil in Bangladesh.
A video circulating on social media captures the 37-year-old cricketer being questioned about the political situation in Bangladesh, only to face a barrage of hostile comments. The verbal assault seems to be fueled by the current unrest in his home country, where political tensions have been on the rise due to recent upheavals. Shakib, who was elected to the Bangladesh National Assembly as a member of the ruling Awami League, has become a focal point for public frustration. The government, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has faced criticism over its handling of student protests that began on August 5, further deepening the political crisis in the nation. As a prominent figure in both the sporting and political arenas, Shakib’s association with the government has made him a target for criticism.
Shakib's on-field performance in the GT20 Canada tournament has also been lacklustre. In six matches, he has managed to score only 70 runs, averaging 11.66. His bowling, usually a strong aspect of his game, has also been subpar, with just seven wickets taken at an average of 16.42 and an economy rate of 5.75. The verbal abuse directed at him comes at a time when his struggles on the field have mirrored the challenges he faces off it.