A group of fans calling for Bangladesh cricket icon Shakib Al Hasan to play in a farewell Test match were attacked by rival protesters wielding sticks and bamboo before the first Test against South Africa in Dhaka, police say. Police said trouble began when protesters opposed to Shakib’s return for the match attacked his supporters, while the touring South African team trained at the venue. The fans, some wearing the Bangladesh cricket team’s shirts, dispersed after being charged by rival protesters. However, the 37-year-old pulled out of the series after fans opposing his return launched protests in advance of the series. Shakib last played an international cricket match in Bangladesh in May, in the T20 series against Zimbabwe.
