I am sad for letting down the sport I love the most: Shakib Al Hasan

Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, on Wednesday, prepared a statement to read out in front of the media and admitted that he let down the sport for not reporting the corrupt approaches. The International Cricket Council (ICC) banned him for two years from all cricket (one year of that in suspension). The ICC took the decision after its Anti Corruption Unit (ACU) thoroughly investigated the matter.

The alleged bookie Deepak Aggarwal approached Shakib Al Hasan thrice in 2018 – twice during the tri-series involving Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe and once during the IPL ahead of the 26 April match between SRH and KXIP – for inside information. The all-rounder didn’t provide any information to him. However, he didn’t report the incident to the ICC ACU as well which led to him breaching the ICC Anti Corruption Code.

The Bangladesh fans suffered a massive shock after the news was made public. However, they have shown strong support for Shakib Al Hasan and are hoping that he will come back stronger next year.

I have failed in my responsibility, says Shakib Al Hasan

While speaking in front of the media, Shakib Al Hasan felt that the cricketers have to support the ICC to make the sport corruption-free. He also conceded that he failed in his responsibility by not reporting the multiple approaches while also vowing to come back next year and serve his country with more vigour.

“I have prepared a statement that I shall now read out. I am sad that I have let down the sport I love the most. I accept the ICC charge of not having reported an unlawful approach. Cricketers need to cooperate with the ICC in keeping the sport clean. I have failed in my responsibility towards ensuring that. I want cricket to be clean, just like the countless fans and other players.

“I also want to set a good example for younger cricketers and hence intend to keep cooperating with the ICC in future. Another thing I wish to say is that I am thankful to the media, fans, BCB and others who have always supported me through all ups and downs. I hope you will continue to support and I will serve the country with more vigour, Shakib Al Hasan was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo.

The 32-year-old is set to miss the T20 World Cup next year in Australia and his ban ends on October 29, 2020, after which he can don the Bangladesh jersey again.

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