Amid concerns over his health, Bangladesh’s star allrounder Shakib Al Hasan has been diagnosed with a medical condition in his left eye. This ailment, identified as extrafoveal Central Serous Chorioretinopathy (CSR), while serious, will not sideline the acclaimed cricketer from his ongoing commitments in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).
The 36-year-old, who has become a linchpin for both the national team and his BPL franchise Rangpur Riders, is set to persist with his engagements despite the diagnosis. Known for his resilience, Shakib is prepared to play in his team’s third match of the season against the Khulna Tigers on Friday, January 26, in Sylhet.
Persistent eye issues prompted Shakib to seek medical attention, leading him to visit an ophthalmologist in Singapore earlier in the week. BCB’s senior physician Dr Debashis Chowdhury disclosed the cricketer’s medical challenge following multiple assessments by eye specialists both within Bangladesh and internationally.
“Shakib has been complaining of subtle issues with his left eye,” Dr Chowdhury explained. “After consulting ophthalmologists in Bangladesh and abroad and after multiple eye assessments, it was confirmed that he is suffering from extrafoveal Central Serous Chorioretinopathy (CSR) of the left eye.”
This condition, CSR, chiefly affects the retina and may lead to a variety of visual disturbances. Despite the diagnosis, Shakib’s medical team remains optimistic. A conservative approach is being taken to manage his eye condition, and hopes are high that this will allow him to continue playing without the need for more aggressive treatments.
This news comes on the heels of the Riders’ revival following their initial defeat in the BPL season opener by Fortune Barishal. Rangpur Riders had a rocky start, succumbing to a five-wicket loss at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur on Saturday, January 20. During this match, Shakib’s performance was a silver lining as he, despite not making runs with the bat, delivered with the ball in hand, securing figures of 4-0-16-2.
Not ones to dwell on defeat, the Riders, led by captain Nurul Hasan, reasserted their championship pedigree in their second match. Featuring a commanding bowling display, the Riders held the Sylhet Strikers to a meager 120 all out. The chase saw the Riders reach their target with 10 balls to spare, securing victory with four wickets in hand.
Amid news of his medical situation, fans and cricket enthusiasts alike are rallying behind Shakib Al Hasan, whose reputation as one of the game’s most formidable all-rounders is coupled with an inspiring level of determination and spirit. Despite the specter of CSR hanging over him, his unwavering commitment to the sport and his franchise has not faltered.
For the Rangpur Riders, having their talisman available amidst such tribulations is a source of motivation as they aim to compete at the highest level of the BPL. Shakib’s decision to continue playing is a testament to his passion for cricket and his desire to lead his team to success.
As the BPL season continues, all eyes will be on Shakib Al Hasan, not only for his performances on the field but also for his health off it. With medical experts closely monitoring his condition, the hope is that one of Bangladesh’s most cherished cricketers will remain a force to be reckoned with on the pitch, despite his ongoing battle with this unusual eye condition.
