The oddity of being at odds
It is after navigating through many odds, overcoming numerous ups and downs, enduring frequent failures and heartbreaks, Bangladesh has ensconced itself in the world of international cricket. The combined efforts of the players and board officials at the seminal stage of our cricket had helped carve a niche for Bangladesh in the company of the illustrious. Suddenly all those achievements seem to be facing the risk of being undone.
The first error was the sudden, albeit short-lived, strike by the cricketers. Going to the media before seeking remedy from the BCB, the normal procedure, was in bad judgement on the part of the players. Understandably, the cricketers' demands had been communicated to the authorities, although in bits and pieces and from time to time, but left unaddressed by the BCB. However, while the players' move was unwarranted, the ham handed, injudicious and brusque manner in which the issue was handled by the BCB president was an even greater blunder. Calling the players' action a conspiracy was perhaps the most bizarre reaction of the board president.
It was after the PM's intervention, as we understand, that the issue was quickly resolved. And when we had hoped that things would be normal and the players would concentrate on the forthcoming tour of India, one has been confronted once again with a new situation arising out of the BCB-Shakib squabble. The BCB has charged Shakib with alleged violation of the terms of agreement. Surely Shakib is not above the law, but this matter should have been addressed more professionally instead of BCB going public and demeaning him. Would we be remiss in suggesting that the board has an axe to grind against Shakib because he had led the players' strike? Blaming Shakib alone for the team's loss against Afghanistan betrays this very mindset of the board regarding Shakib.
Despite all his shortcomings Shakib happens to be the world's leading allrounder. He needs to fully concentrate and prepare for the forthcoming India tour. This is a full tour, one that has been coveted for a long time. And his role is even more vital given that the team will be without another leading player Tamim Iqbal. The matter, we suggest, be resolved quickly and Shakib be left to concentrate with the team on the uphill task ahead.
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