Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced a raise in player salaries and match fees, signaling a positive shift for its cricketers. However, star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is yet to receive his salary for the last four months of 2024, with sources revealing that his bank account has been frozen, leading to a delay in payment.
The BCB confirmed on Monday that Shakib’s pending salary for September, October, November, and December remains unsettled due to this issue. According to a board official closely involved with the matter, “It’s true that Shakib has not received his salary for these months, and the reason is that his bank account got frozen.”
Shakib was due to receive a total of BDT 48 lakh (approximately USD 38,400) before taxes for the four months. Despite the payment delay, the BCB has assured that the payment will be processed once the account situation is resolved.
The star all-rounder, who remains one of Bangladesh’s most influential players, had signed a central contract with the BCB for 2024, granting him an all-formats contract alongside other key players like Litton Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Najmul Hossain Shanto, and Shoriful Islam. However, recent events have put a dent in Shakib’s career, with political controversies and security issues playing a part in his absence from the national team.
Shakib had previously announced his retirement from Test and T20I cricket during the India series in September, citing his desire to play his final Test at home against South Africa. However, due to concerns over safety, he did not return for the series. His absence also came amid allegations linking him to a murder case tied to political unrest, an issue that had the potential to affect his reputation and cricketing career.
Despite these allegations, the BCB allowed Shakib to continue playing for the national team, pending the resolution of the legal issues. The board had initially stated that Shakib would be welcomed back for the South Africa series, but security concerns led to a shift in stance, particularly after the ICC Women’s World Cup was moved from Bangladesh to the UAE due to similar concerns.
In a further blow to his career, Shakib’s bank accounts were frozen in early November, preventing him from receiving his dues. This incident, coupled with his retirement from Test and T20I formats, left Shakib out of the squad for the Champions Trophy, as concerns over his bowling action also came into play.
Despite these setbacks, the BCB has assured that Shakib will receive his pending salary in full, as per the terms of his contract. BCB Cricket Operations Chairman, Nazmul Abedin, confirmed, “Shakib will receive his salary as per the agreement. Whether a player is actively involved or not, the contract remains intact, and we will ensure that our commitment is fulfilled.”
While the delays and controversies surrounding Shakib’s finances and career continue, the BCB’s commitment to honoring the central contract could pave the way for a resolution, though Shakib’s future with the national team remains uncertain.
