Rangpur Riders opt against signing Shakib Al Hasan for GSL amid political concerns

Rangpur Riders had initially expressed interest in signing all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan for their campaign in the upcoming Global Super League (GSL), set to begin in Guyana on 10 July. However, the franchise ultimately decided against bringing in the veteran cricketer after taking into account the current political climate, according to club officials.

"Shakib Al Hasan remains one of the most valuable players—not only in Bangladesh, but across franchise leagues globally. It's not that we didn't want him in the squad, but we are aware of the country's present situation. Shakib is still capable of making the starting eleven in any franchise side. But given the current context, we were unable to include him," said Rangpur team director Shanian Tanim, speaking at a sponsor signing event in Dhaka today.

Shakib, a former member of the previous government, has not returned to Bangladesh following the student-led people's movement that took place last year.

Tanim also clarified that the decision to exclude Shakib was made solely by the team management and was not influenced by any external directives.

"We did not receive any instructions from anyone regarding the inclusion of Shakib Al Hasan. It was entirely a decision made by the management, as we were uncertain about the potential consequences of including him in the squad.

"We acknowledge only Shakib's identity as a cricketer—nothing else. I believe he understands the situation just as we do. It's true that his inclusion would have addressed several needs in the team; with him, we would gain a batter, a spinner, and an experienced player. As a cricketer, we have no doubts about his abilities, but in light of the country's current circumstances, the management had to make this call," Tanim added.