Rangpur explains Shakib's omission from GSL squad
Shakib Al Hasan in Rangpur's Jersey
Rangpur Riders had initially shown interest in including veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan in their squad for the upcoming Global Super League (GSL) in Guyana, scheduled to begin on July 10.
However, after assessing the situation surrounding the cricketer, the franchise opted not to bring him on board, according to club officials.
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Team director Shanian Tanim explained the reasoning behind the decision, praising Shakib’s cricketing value while acknowledging the complications of the current climate.
"Shakib Al Hasan is still one of the most valuable players, not only in Bangladesh, but in any franchise league in the world. It is not like that we did not want him in the squad, but we know the situation of the country at this moment. Shakib still can feature in the starting eleven of any franchise teams. But keeping the current situation in mind, we were not able to take him in the squad," said Shanian.
Shakib, who had been linked with the previous political administration, has not returned to Bangladesh since the student-led movement that shook the nation last year.
Tanim clarified that the team’s decision was independent and not influenced by any external directives.
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"We did not receive any instructions from anyone regarding taking Shakib Al Hasan in the squad. It was a decision made by the team management as we were not sure about the outcome if we take him in the squad.
"We only acknowledge the cricketer identity of Shakib, not his other identities. I think he also understands the situation as much as we do. It is true that his presence would solve a lot of problems in the squad, as in him we would get a batter, a spinner and a senior player. As a cricketer, we have no doubts over him, but considering the current circumstances of the country, the team management had to make the decision."
Despite acknowledging his skill and the all-round value he brings, Rangpur’s management concluded that including Shakib could pose unnecessary complications at this time.
