Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud stated there are no obstacles to all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan returning to Bangladesh for his final Test against South Africa on October 21.
Shakib, who resides in the USA with his family, announced his plan to retire from Test cricket during the India Tests in September.
But he expressed his interest in playing his last Test against South Africa if the authorities could ensure his safety in the country.
Asif acknowledged the concerns regarding Shakib鈥檚 link to a murder case related to the protest during July鈥檚 student-led movement.聽
Nevertheless, he assured the way much clearer for Shakib to participate in his farewell Test despite the legal issue.
鈥楾here should not be any obstacle in (him) coming or going out of the country. As far as I know. The law ministry can explain the legal aspect. I am neither an expert nor in charge of the ministry,鈥� Asif told reporters during his visit to the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Sunday.
鈥榃e have also spoken with the ministry of law. Asif Nazrul sir has already said that if his involvement is not found in the preliminary investigation, his name will be omitted from the case.鈥�
Asif also reckoned that there may be emotional outbursts from the public due to Shakib鈥檚 involvement with the former dissolved Awami League-led government.
However, Shakib has already apologised for his silence during the student-led protests in the country on his social media.
Asif believes there is room for passion and forgiveness for the cricketer.
鈥業t is the responsibility of the state to ensure the safety of every citizen. It is the responsibility of the state to ensure the security of the cricket team as well. We will make sure of that,鈥� he said.
鈥業 think that emotion definitely has a place. Since there was a big movement and Shakib was involved with the previous fascist government. However, he cleared his stance in his post. I think there is definitely a place for passion,鈥� he added.