Bangladeshi cricket superstar Shakib Al Hasan has made headlines once again, this time for his entry into the world of politics. The all-rounder has formally sought a nomination from the ruling Bangladesh Awami League to contest in the upcoming general election set to take place in January next year. Shakib, who has been a key player in the national cricket team since 2006, has taken nomination forms from the Awami League to run for office in three constituencies, according to Awami League joint secretary general Bahauddin Nasim.

Shakib Al Hasan will compete in the upcoming General Election and this was expected. It's sad that Bangladesh has no role model right now to emulate but all are opportunists and thugs. #SheikhHasina and India have created a factory of fake role models by undermining the genuine… pic.twitter.com/5Hn8Jr7Y7x

— FC MP (@sambayorker) November 18, 2023

This announcement has caused a stir among cricket fans around the world. The ruling party has acknowledged Shakib's popularity and celebrity status among the country's youth. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's parliamentary board must now approve his candidature for him to officially enter the race as a lawmaker. Shakib is positive about receiving a party ticket either from his hometown of Magura or from the capital city, Dhaka. Shakib's venture into politics follows in the footsteps of former cricket captain Mashrafe Mortaza, who joined politics in 2018 and became a lawmaker for the ruling party. Mortaza eventually stepped down from cricket to focus on his political career.

The upcoming general elections seem to be favoring Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been in power for the past 15 years. The main opposition parties have already announced their boycott, making Hasina's return to power for a fourth consecutive term almost certain. However, the opposition has accused Hasina of election fraud and rigging in the past. Shakib, who is currently nursing a finger injury, hopes to recover soon and participate in the upcoming elections. Despite his injury, his popularity and contributions to the country's cricket team have made him a revered figure in Bangladesh.

His move into politics during his playing career is rare in South Asia, where cricket holds immense popularity. It remains to be seen how Shakib's foray into politics will impact both his cricketing career and the political landscape of Bangladesh. With his talent both on and off the field, it is clear that Shakib Al Hasan is prepared to make his mark in the political arena and further contribute to his country.