Bangladesh's ongoing social turmoil has deeply impacted its cricketers

Bangladesh's ongoing political and social turmoil has deeply impacted its cricketers. Wicketkeeper-batter Nurul Hasan has been directly involved in the protests, even facing police chases in Dhaka. Similarly, Akbar Ali and Kamrul Islam Rabbi have openly supported the students from the early stages of the unrest. Anamul Haque, another Bangladesh batter, experienced a personal tragedy when his close friend Akram was killed during the student protests in Dhaka on July 25.

Ahead of Bangladesh A’s tour to Islamabad for two four-day matches against Pakistan A, Anamul spoke to reporters at the Shere Bangla National Stadium. He shared the emotional toll of the protests, particularly after losing touch with his family and dealing with his friend's death.

"It’s been very difficult. I lost a friend who was like a brother to me in the protests," Anamul said. "We were very close, and I get emotional just thinking about him. I hope no one else has to go through such trauma. While I was in Chattogram, I couldn’t reach my family in Dhaka. This tragedy has affected everyone in some way."

Anamul described the sleepless nights he endured after the fall of the Awami League government, as uncertainty and chaos engulfed Dhaka. "I was awake from 2 a.m. to 5 a.m., taking care of my child and observing the unrest," he recounted. "People were out on the streets protecting their property. We don't want to live like this. We seek peace and fundamental rights. Everyone should be able to live honestly."

He also commended the students for their efforts in managing Dhaka’s traffic during a period when the police force was notably absent. "The students have done an extraordinary job managing traffic and maintaining order. This is the kind of country we aspire to have," he said.

Looking ahead, Anamul hopes the Bangladesh A tour will serve as valuable preparation for the senior team’s upcoming Test series in Pakistan. "Cricket is an emotional outlet that unites us," he said. "This tour will be crucial, especially with the Test series that follows. Pakistan generally offers batting-friendly conditions, which will benefit both teams. We hope to provide some positive news and bring cheer to our fans during these challenging times."

Bangladesh A will play two four-day games and three one-day matches against Pakistan A in Islamabad. The senior team’s two-Test series against Pakistan will begin on August 21 in Rawalpindi.