NEW DELHI: Bangladesh cricket sensation Shakib Al Hasan is poised for victory in the country's general elections in a significant foray into politics, which have been marred by the opposition's boycott, leaving him virtually unopposed.
The charismatic all-rounder, widely regarded as one of the era's leading players, has been actively campaigning for the ruling party of prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
Shakib, known for his exceptional skills on the cricket field, acknowledged the apparent lack of serious opposition but revealed a hint of pre-competition anxiety reminiscent of his cricketing days.
During a campaign event in Magura, where he is contesting a seat for Hasina's Awami League, Shakib stated, "The competition and challenges are always there, be it a small team or big team. Even when we know we will win against a team, we still feel our heart beat before the game."
Taking a temporary hiatus from cricket, Shakib has immersed himself in politics, actively engaging with party loyalists and fans. Playfully tossing tennis balls into the crowd and posing for selfies, he displayed a blend of sportsmanship and political charisma.
Dispelling concerns about balancing his dual roles as a lawmaker and cricket captain, Shakib asserted, "Did I retire? If I haven't retired, then where does this question come from?"
The 36-year-old affirmed his commitment to both cricket and politics, expressing readiness for the dual responsibilities.
Despite his iconic status, the turnout at Shakib's campaign events has been relatively modest, with a few thousand gathering to witness the sports legend's political journey.
As the opposition parties face challenges, including arrests of officials and activists, Shakib has been rallying support, urging people to "work together" and counteract the effects of the opposition's boycott.
Shakib's venture into politics aligns with a broader trend of cricketers transitioning to political roles in South Asia. The intersection of sports and politics has become more pronounced, with cricketing icons leveraging their popularity for political endeavors.
As the opposition's withdrawal raises questions about the credibility of the elections, Shakib's imminent victory highlights the complex interplay between sports and politics in Bangladesh.
(With inputs from AFP)
