Five days after being banned by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for violating Anti-Corruption Code, Bangladesh cricketer Shakib Al Hasan said that he has now realised what it means to represent the country.
Read More: Cricket fraternity slams Shakib Al Hasan for not reporting corrupt approaches
Shakib on Tuesday (October 29) was handed a two-year ban (one of which is suspended) as he failed to report multiple corrupt approaches made to him by a bookie.
Taking to Facebook, the ace all-rounder posted a lengthy message, in which he thanked his fans for their 'unconditional support'.
"To all my fans and well-wishers, let me start by saying that I have been touched and felt blessed by your unconditional support and affection during what has been a very difficult time for me and my family. In the last few days I have realised more than ever what it means to represent your country," Shakib wrote.
"On that note, I am requesting calm and patience from all my supporters who may have felt aggrieved at the sanction imposed on me," he further added.
Shakib was charged for not reporting approaches from an alleged Indian bookie twice during a tri-series between Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe in January 2018 and once during IPL in April 2018.
"I wish to make it very clear that the entire investigation by the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit was confidential and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) only came to know about it from me just a few days before the announcement of the sanction. From that point onwards, the BCB has been most supportive and understanding of my situation and I am grateful for that," his message further read.
The 32-year-old can resume his international cricket only from October 29, 2020, which means his participation in next year’s T20 World Cup is all but over. The marquee event will be held in Australia from October 8 to November 15.
"I can understand why many people are offering to help and I really appreciate that. However, there is a process in place and I have accepted my ban because I felt that was the right thing to do," he said.
"My entire focus now is on returning to the cricket field and playing for Bangladesh again in 2020. Until then keep me in your prayers and heart. Thank you," Shakib concluded.
