In a remarkable act of generosity, Bangladesh’s cricket hero Mehidy Hasan has donated his Player of the Series award money from the recent Test series against Pakistan to the family of a rickshaw driver who tragically lost his life during a student protest against the Hasina Wajid government.
The rickshaw driver was fatally wounded amidst the turmoil, and Hasan’s heartfelt gesture has resonated deeply across the country.
Bangladesh recently secured a historic whitewash against Pakistan in a two-match Test series. The first victory, where Bangladesh triumphed by 10 wickets, marked the nation’s first-ever Test win over Pakistan in cricket history. Following that, the Bangladeshi side went on to clinch the series with a commanding win in the second Test.
Mehidy Hasan was the standout performer of the series, taking 10 wickets and earning the prestigious title of Player of the Series. His all-round performance not only sealed Bangladesh’s place in cricket history but also demonstrated his commitment to the nation both on and off the pitch.
After receiving the Player of the Series award, Mehidy Hasan dedicated his prize to the lives lost during the student movement. He said, “For the first time I’ve won the Player of the Series award in the Test series. As you know, the country has been going through some tough times recently. I want to dedicate this award to those who lost their lives during the recent student protests, including the rickshaw driver who was injured and later passed away.”
True to his word, Mehidy Hasan followed through by gifting his entire award money to the family of the late rickshaw driver. His noble act has been applauded nationwide and shines as a symbol of solidarity with those affected by social and political unrest.
In a post-match interview after the series, Hasan expressed his joy and pride, stating, “I’m extremely happy today. This is my first time winning a Player of the Series award outside my country. Batting at number eight was challenging, but I tried to rotate the strike and support the batsman at the other end.”
Hasan’s contribution to the series was nothing short of heroic. His dedication and skill with both bat and ball were instrumental in Bangladesh’s dominant performance against Pakistan, a victory that will be remembered for years to come.
But it is Hasan’s humility and sense of responsibility that have won the hearts of his fellow countrymen. In a time of political and social tension, his decision to stand with the grieving family of a victim has made him a national icon, not just as a cricketer but as a compassionate human being.
Mehidy Hasan’s story is a powerful reminder that sports figures can transcend their role on the field to become beacons of hope and inspiration for society. Bangladesh’s historic triumph over Pakistan will forever be etched in the annals of cricket history, but the cricketer’s selfless act of kindness will be remembered with equal reverence.
As the world continues to applaud his on-field performance, it is Hasan’s off-field actions that will leave a lasting legacy. His decision to honor a fallen rickshaw driver’s family with his Player of the Series award is a testament to the values of empathy, responsibility, and national unity.
Mehidy Hasan’s donation of his Player of the Series award money to the family of a victim of political unrest is not just a tribute to his character but also an act that goes beyond cricket. It underscores the power of sports as a unifying force and highlights the role athletes can play in addressing real-life issues.
