Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo
Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has urged the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to reconsider their decision to ban him for six months.
Al Hasan’s plea came after he apologised for his “serious misbehaviour” with head coach Chandika Hathurusingha and for his altercation with a spectator during the first ODI against India on June 15 in Dhaka.
“I am expressing my sincerest apologies if my behaviour has embarrassed the BCB, the Bangladesh cricket team and our fans,” Shakib read from a statement that had been prepared in advance. “I accept that as a professional and contracted cricketer, I haven’t behaved in a disciplined and restrained manner in several cases. In the future, I am determined to behave with more restraint.
“I respect the board’s decision, but there is nothing more painful than staying away from cricket. It is my life and I have worn Bangladesh’s colours and BCB’s logo since the Under-15 days. It is my pride. The Bangladesh team is above everything. I give my all when I play for them, and I would do so in the future. I have grown up with Bangladesh cricket, and I have an emotional connection with it. From that position, I am requesting the BCB to reconsider my suspension.”
BCB acting CEO Nizamuddin Chowdhury confirmed that he had met with Al Hasan on Sunday and that the all-rounder had indeed submitted an appeal against his ban.
“Shakib has submitted a prayer to reconsider the July 7 sanction made by the board of directors,” Chowdhury said. “Since this is a board decision, they will decide on it.”