All this while Shakib al Hasan had only heard stories about former India President Pranab Mukherjee. But on Wednesday, the Bangladesh captain finally had a chance to meet the erstwhile President in person.
On a four-day trip to Bangaldesh, Mukherjee — also a cricket fan — seemed delighted to meet Shakib, who gifted his jersey to Mukherjee. “It was a courtesy visit. Over the years, I have heard enough inspiring stories about him, but finally I could meet him today,” an excited Shakib told Sportstar from Dhaka — a while after the meeting.
What made the matters easy was the fact that both Bangladesh cricket team — which is playing the Tri-series at home — and Mukherjee were staying at the same hotel. “I did not want to miss this opportunity. We spoke for a while, exchanged a few thoughts. Meeting him itself is a big honour,” the Bangladesh skipper added.
While Shakib was bowled over by Mukherjee’s personality, he admitted that he would cherish this moment for long. “This is a big thing for me. He (Mukherjee) has always played an important role in strengthening the relationship between the two countries. It is a great feeling,” Shakib said.
The 82-year-old erstwhile Indian President was conferred upon an honorary doctorate degree by a prestigious university in Bangladesh and he also attended the International Bengali Literature Conference.
For Shakib, however, it was a big break from cricket, and certainly the one to remember!
Comments
SHARE