Can Bangladesh Cricket Regain Its Power to Unite the Nation?

Cricket once served as a unifying force in Bangladesh, transcending religion, caste, and political beliefs, with the nation collectively celebrating victories and mourning defeats. However, that unity seems to be fading. The rise of political tensions following the Hasina government’s fall has complicated matters. Shakib faces potential arrest if he returns, leading to his insistence on safety assurances, which have yet to be provided by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) or the government. Instead, government officials have publicly downplayed his significance, igniting divisions among fans—some protesting his return while others rally in support.