Beyond Bangla: Shakib’s new chapter beyond cricket

Shakib75! 

One of the symbols of greatness in the cricket world, Bangladesh’s senior all-rounder is set to make his mark in media and journalism by launching his own digital news platform, Beyond Bangla.

Expressing his thoughts, 39-year-old Shakib Al Hasan said that the core motivation of his new step will be simple yet ambitious, ensuring the right news reaches the right people.

"News is presented in many ways. Often, the real story does not reach people. If we can bring out the truth behind the news, that is what we want to do," Shakib told BanglaNews24 on Sunday.

This venture marks a new chapter in Shakib's career as he debuts as a media publisher after his cricket success. Beyond Bangla aims to transcend geographical boundaries by providing global affairs and contemporary issues through credible storytelling.

The idea, however, was born not in a boardroom but in casual conversation.

"This wasn’t a long-term plan," the ace all-rounder revealed. "It came up naturally while talking. From discussion to discussion, the idea took shape."

Sports will feature prominently on Beyond Bangla, a point Shakib made clear.

"Of course, sports will be there. Every detail of sport will have importance on our platform," he added.

The website structure is nearly complete, though it will not go live immediately. A test run is planned within the next few months to refine content quality, presentation and editorial structure.

Initially, content will focus on Bangla-speaking audiences in Bangladesh and West Bengal, with long-term plans to publish in both Bangla and English.

Despite the ambition, Shakib remains grounded.

"Everyone says that they want to be different. I won’t promise that. What I can say is we will bring real news. What is happening, that truth should reach people," he mentioned in the report.

Besides, National Film Award-winning lyricist and veteran journalist Zulfikar Russell will serve as the platform's editor.

Russell echoed the sentiment, describing the partnership as organic and timely.

"During an informal chat, we felt this could be something meaningful. Shakib was extremely positive. Everything aligned, and the partnership became natural," the editor of Beyond Bangla told BanglaNews.