Shakib to play for Legends of Rupganj?

Mohammedan Sporting Club today announced that they have agreed to give an NOC (No Objection Certificate) to Shakib Al Hasan, enabling the all-rounder to play for Legends of Rupganj in the remaining matches of the ongoing Dhaka Premier League. 

Mohammedan, who roped in Shakib before this edition of the premier league, is already out of the tournament as they failed to make it to the Super League stage. Shakib, however, could not represent the Black and Whites in the first phase of the tournament as the cricketer was busy with the national team's tour of South Africa and was later out of cricket for a few days due to a family crisis. 

"Shakib Al Hasan contacted us and said that he wanted to play the premier league this season. As Mohammedan did not qualify for the Super League stage, he informed us of his willingness to play for another team. He then said he had already contacted Legends of Rupganj regarding the matter," informed Mohammedan director AGM Sabbir during a press briefing today. 

Shakib is scheduled to arrive in the country tomorrow and is expected to play four DPL matches as part of preparation for Bangladesh's upcoming two-Test home series against Sri Lanka in May. 

"As he wants to play and be involved in cricket ahead of the Sri Lanka series, we, the club officials, also decided to release him. We wish him the very best. If the BCB allows him, he can play for Legends of Rupganj," added Mohammedan director Sabbir. 

Sabbir, however, also informed that Mohammedan will be retaining the services of Shakib, their big-money signing, for the next season. 

"We will be retaining him for the next season and that has been decided mutually," Sabbir informed. 

Meanwhile, Shakib's participation for the Legends of Rupganj will only be confirmed after the fulfillment of a few official procedures.

"Shakib can play for Legends of Rupganj after completion of a few procedures. A NOC from Mohammedan stating their statement of Shakib's release, a consent letter from Shakib and an acceptance letter from Legends of Rupganj need to be officially handed to the Cricket Committee of Dhaka Metropolis (CCDM)," said Salahuddin Chowdhury, chairman of CCDM, the organisers of the DPL.

The Legends of Rupganj, who are now second on the points table with 16 points from eight wins in 11 matches, are scheduled to face Prime Bank in their second Super League match at the BKSP-4 ground on Thursday.