Cricket

Shakib Al Hasan, the star all-rounder for Bangladesh, has expressed his reluctance to travel to Dhaka for the upcoming first Test against South Africa due to ongoing protests against him in the city. Shakib's inclusion in the Bangladesh squad for the Test, which was set to be his final appearance in the format, has sparked controversy.Shakib's concerns stem from the recent arrests of several Awami League leaders, including himself, who was named in an FIR for an alleged murder during unrest in his hometown of Magura. The all-rounder had previously expressed fears for his safety if he returned to Bangladesh.Despite assurances from selectors that he would be granted safe passage, students began protesting Shakib's imminent arrival on Wednesday evening. A group known as "Mirpur Chhatro Janata" informed the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) of their intention to protest Shakib's appearance at the stadium.As a result, Shakib was reportedly advised to remain in Dubai, where he was transiting from New York. Although his flight to Dhaka is scheduled for Thursday evening, it is highly unlikely that he will make the trip.Shakib's absence from the first Test would be a significant blow to Bangladesh's hopes of a positive start to the series. The all-rounder is one of the team's most experienced and influential players, and his presence would have been crucial in the absence of several other senior players.The BCB is facing a difficult situation, as they must balance the safety of their players with the demands of the protesters. It remains to be seen whether Shakib will eventually travel to Dhaka or if he will be forced to miss the Test altogether.

Gwalior Braces for India-Bangladesh T20I Amidst Tight Security and ProtestsAhead of the highly anticipated T20I match between India and Bangladesh in Gwalior on Sunday, the city has been placed under heightened security to ensure a safe and incident-free event.Prohibitory orders have been imposed in Gwalior, and over 2,500 police personnel have been deployed to maintain law and order. Police presence will be visible from 2 pm onwards, and officers will remain on duty until spectators have safely returned home after the day-night game.Social media is also being closely monitored for any inflammatory content that could incite violence.Despite the security measures, right-wing organizations Bajrang Dal and Hindu Mahasabha continue to oppose the match. Bajrang Dal's national convenor, Neeraj Dauneria, has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to cancel the event, citing concerns about terrorism and the alleged persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh.Hindu Mahasabha vice-president Jaiveer Bhardwaj has announced a Gwalior bandh until 1 pm on Sunday to protest the match. The organization claims that the Bangladesh team has been restricted to their hotel and stadium due to their protests.Business establishments in the city have been asked to remain closed on Sunday as part of the protest. Police have previously arrested several Hindu Mahasabha workers for demonstrating against the match.The India-Bangladesh T20I is a significant sporting event for Gwalior, and the authorities are determined to ensure that it proceeds smoothly and without any disruptions. The security measures and the ongoing protests highlight the importance of maintaining peace and harmony during such events.