In the lead-up to the upcoming 12th National Assembly elections, a number of cricketers and organizers have obtained nomination forms. The spotlight was on Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan, who garnered significant attention. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina did not disappoint, as the left-handed all-rounder secured the Awami League nomination for the Magura-1 seat.
In the wake of the recent announcement of Shakib Al Hasan as the Awami League's nominated MP candidate for Magura-1 seat, the spotlight has once again shifted to the intersection of sports and politics, a realm that was previously occupied by Mashrafe bin Mortuza.
The tenure of the current selection panel, headed by Minhajul Abedin Nannu, is set to conclude on December 31. The uncertainty prevails regarding the formation of the new selection committee, with discussions ongoing about whether the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) will opt for a fresh committee or retain the existing one. Speculation is rife about potential successors in the event of Habibul Bashar's departure.
After a finger injury in the Cricket World Cup kept Shakib Al Hasan away from the cricket field, he has resurfaced in a different arena – the political one. Representing his constituency in Magura, Shakib, now a Member of Parliament, showcased his cricketing prowess during a local event.
The Sylhet Strikers Bowler Hunt, a two-day spectacle that unfolded on December 30, 2023, marked the culmination of an intense competition that drew approximately 1400 cricketer
National cricket team players Soumya Sarkar, Sabbir Rahman, and Nazmul Hossain Apu actively supported Shakib Al Hasan's political campaign in his constituency. They distributed campaign leaflets featuring Shakib's party symbol, the boat, and engaged with voters to seek support.
In the Narail 2 Constituency, Member of Parliament Mashrafe Bin Mortaza is contending for re-election with the boat symbol. Simultaneously, Shakib Al Hasan is entering the political arena for the first time, vying for Magura 1 seat. The former and current national cricket team captains, Mashrafe and Shakib, met during the final phase of the election campaign. Shakib, embarking on his political journey, receives support from teammates and coaches. National team cricketers actively join Shakib's campaign, reflecting solidarity.
The upcoming twelfth national election is set to unfold, promising a period of five years led by representatives chosen through fair, impartial, and participatory means. This time, the election arena is witnessing the active involvement of several sports stars, transitioning from their field exploits to the world of politics.
Following a resounding victory in the 12th parliamentary election from Magura-1 seat, Shakib Al Hasan wasted no time getting back into action. Despite the late-night announcement of his win, Shakib arrived at the indoor practice facility at around 3:30 pm, fully prepared to resume training. Coach Nazmul Abedin Fahim, trainer Bayezdul Islam, Tushar Kanti Das Howladar, and doctor Manjur Hossain joined the session, emphasizing the commitment to work even after the election triumph.
The night before, Shakib Al Hasan was immersed in election activities in Magura, working tirelessly till midnight as a first-time Member of Parliament. Surprising everyone, he appeared in Mirpur on Monday afternoon, emphasizing his connection to cricket over politics.
