Fans Face Obstacles with Shakib’s Posters in Galleries; BCB Director Asif Akbar Speaks Out

Nov 04, 2025
Sports

File Photo: Shakib Al Hasan and Asif Akbar (Collected)

Staff Reporter | PNN:

Fans of Shakib Al Hasan, who has been away from the national team for a long time, are disappointed not to see him return. Many spectators bring posters of Shakib to various match galleries, but often face obstacles. Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) director and popular singer Asif Akbar recently commented on this issue.

During the Bangladesh-West Indies series at Chattogram’s Bir Shreshtha Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium, many spectators carrying Shakib-themed placards were prevented from entering the galleries. In some cases, the placards were even torn.

After a BCB board meeting on Monday (3 November), Asif Akbar told the media:

"I have known Shakib since he joined the Bangladesh team. I have known him for 17–18 years and value him as a cricketer. The rest is the responsibility of the Disciplinary Committee. Whether Shakib’s posters are allowed in the galleries will be determined by them."

Shakib has been unable to return to the country since 5 August, and several legal cases are ongoing against him. However, Asif Akbar emphasized that he wants to evaluate Shakib solely as a cricketer. He added:

"Shakib is a soft corner for the people of Bangladesh; he is a brand for the country. Whether his posters enter the galleries will be decided by the Disciplinary Committee."

This situation has sparked discussion among fans, many of whom believe that support should be shown for the national team’s beloved cricketer. The BCB is trying to address the matter considering rules and security.