The uncertainty surrounding all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan's final Test shows no sign of abating. During the recently concluded two-match series against India, Bangladesh's top all-rounder expressed his desire to play his final Test at home against South Africa. However, with the protests in Bangladesh showing no signs of ending, Shakib Al Hasan has now stated that he is unlikely to travel to Dhaka, which happens to host the upcoming first Test against South Africa.

There are currently protests in Dhaka because of Shakib Al Hasan. The Bangladesh legend was named in the team's squad for the first Test against the Proteas, which would be his final appearance in the longest format of the game.

However, while speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Shakib confirmed that he is not sure about traveling to the city for his final Test.

“I'm not sure where I'm going next, but it's almost certain I'm not going home,” Shakib said.

Earlier, Shakib Al Hasan expressed concern for his safety in Bangladesh. He expressed his opinion after a number of Awami League leaders were arrested on August 5, which happened to be the day the Bangladesh government effectively resigned from power after 15 years.

Shakib was also a member of parliament for his hometown Magura. During the riots, Shakib was also one of 147 people named in an FIR over an alleged murder, ESPNcricinfo reported.

It is important to mention that Shakib remains in the Bangladesh squad for the upcoming first Test against South Africa.

Protests against Shakib in Bangladesh

Bangladesh chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain said he had not received any instructions from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) regarding Shakib.

Earlier this week, selector Hannan Sarkar had said that they opted for the all-rounder after getting a green signal from the authorities.

Although Shakib was assured of safe entry into Bangladesh, several students protested against his arrival on Wednesday evening. According to ESPNcricinfo, a group calling themselves the 'Mirpur Chhatro Janata' has told the BCB that they will also protest against Shakib's appearance at the stadium if he plays his final Test in Dhaka.

According to AFP news agency, youth and sports advisor Asif Mahmud said in a statement that he had advised Shakib not to return home to “avoid unpleasant situations.”

“I advised Shakib not to come (to Bangladesh) to avoid unfavorable circumstances. This decision was taken to ensure the safety of the players and protect the image of the country,” Asif said.

The first Test between Bangladesh and South Africa is scheduled to begin on October 21 in Dhaka.