‘We want Shakib, Mashrafe back’: Aminul

Former national football team captain Aminul Haque has called for a resolution to the murder cases filed against star cricketers Shakib Al Hasan and Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, expressing hope that the duo can return to Bangladesh’s cricketing landscape.

Aminul, who was sworn in as State Minister for Youth and Sports in the BNP-led government on Tuesday following a landslide victory in the February 12 national elections, said the matter would be handled at the government level.

“The matter concerning Shakib and Mashrafe will be dealt with by the government. We will remain flexible on this issue. The cases against them will be handled by the government. We want Shakib to return,” Aminul said during a media briefing at his residence in Mirpur on Tuesday.

“Since there are cases filed against them, we hope those will be resolved swiftly so they can return. We also want Shakib and Mashrafe back in Bangladesh cricket,” he added.

Shakib and Mashrafe were both members of parliament under the ousted Awami League-led government. Multiple cases, including murder charges, have been filed against the two cricketers.

Shakib has been absent from the national side for nearly a year and a half, with franchise leagues around the world becoming his primary cricketing focus. His last appearance in national colours came in a Test against India in Kanpur in late 2024.

Meanwhile, 42-year-old Mashrafe had been a regular in domestic competitions before the July uprising and featured in the 2024 Dhaka Premier League in April.