BCB never forced me to play Asia Cup, clears Shakib Al Hasan

Amidst a lot of controversy regarding the Shakib Al Hasan’s participation in the Asia Cup 2018 held in September this year, the celebrated Bangladesh cricketer has chosen to clear the air once and for all. In a recent interview, Shakib confirmed that he’d not been forced by the authorities at the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to play the Asia Cup.

The Bangladesh all-rounder has long been the backbone of the team, playing his role to perfection with both the bat and the ball. Apart from participating at the international level, the 31-year old has extensively been a part of various T20 leagues such as the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).

Shakib refutes claims of being forced to play

The controversy regarding Shakib Al Hasan’s role in the Asia Cup emerged after his unceremonious exit from the tournament following a fractured finger. Reportedly, he’d sustained an injury on his left hand’s little finger ahead of the tournament and had hoped to get it operated on after his return from the West Indies. Instead, he was seen playing in the Asia Cup, which allegedly led to an aggravation of his injury.

Speaking to Prothom Alo on Wednesday, Shakib Al Hasan said, “I was never forced to take part in the Asia Cup by the board. I never said anything like it nor the board president insisted anything as such, so don’t know why there is so much controversy regarding it. I am clearing this for once, BCB president said that if you feel you can play then play.”

Explaining his reasons behind playing in the tournament, the all-rounder commented, “Asia Cup is the biggest tournament after World Cup and Champions Trophy, so naturally I wanted to participate. I took the decision after talking with the physio and the infection was sustained unexpectedly. I am not sure why I am always dragged into the controversy.” Reportedly, Shakib had recently visited Australia to consult physicians regarding his injury and returned on October 14.

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