Published on 12:00 AM, August 09, 2018

Shakib explains outburst

Photo: Screenshot of video.

In a message posted on his verified Facebook page, Bangladesh Test and T20I captain Shakib Al Hasan explained the reason behind his outburst against a fan on Monday. In a video that went viral, Shakib was seen speaking angrily to a fan in the team's Florida hotel lobby after Bangladesh sealed the T20I series against West Indies. The following is his message in full:

Dear fans and followers, it has come to my notice that a video clip has been uploaded of me and a so called "fan" arguing in our hotel lobby after grueling match against the West Indies. The clip does not convey the entire sequence of events and is shown out of context.

I, like my teammates, were exhausted after back-to-back matches and just wanted to go back to our rooms. We were carrying our own equipment and bags and my hands were full so I wasn't in a position to give out autographs at the time. I, along with my teammates, usually try to spend our times with our fans and also share moments by taking selfies and giving out autographs. But fans also need to understand that we are human beings and give our all on the field fighting for our national colors. Are we not allowed to be busy or tired? We understand and appreciate your support for the team and us and we will always give it our all to ensure that we honor it on and off the field. However, times like this, sometimes makes the entire struggle and hard work unbearable and difficult to cope with.

My humble request to you is that you don't take it personally when one of us can't meet your requests, as the situation we are in might be different from what you are seeing. Please do not rush to make judgment or form opinions about us without trying to understand whether we are in a good mood or bad mood. I love my fans and I play for them whether its for the national team or any other league team, but at the same time I expect respect, love and most importantly understanding form you all. I know some people (who follow me or not) will try to make an issue out of nothing, but this petty mentality needs to change if you expect us to do better. The matches are difficult as it is and we don't need this added pressure. From one human being to another, thanks for understanding.

Love, Shakib.