The potential return of former national captain and world-renowned all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan to the Bangladesh cricket team has once again stirred excitement across the cricketing community. During a Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) meeting held on Saturday, 24 January 2026, the board resolved to reconsider Shakib for future squad selections, signalling a possible revival of his international career.
Following the board meeting, officials stated that upon Shakib’s return to the country, a thorough evaluation would be undertaken to assess his fitness, availability, and readiness for international competition before he is formally included in the national side.
Board Director Amjad Hossain told reporters,
“The matter was discussed in depth during the board meeting. Provided Shakib is available in a timely manner, the selectors will evaluate his fitness and capacity to participate in upcoming matches. If necessary, the board will issue a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to facilitate his participation in international tournaments.”
In addition, the board has proposed reintegrating Shakib under the central contract scheme. Any pending legal or administrative matters affecting him will be coordinated with government authorities to ensure that no legal complications obstruct his cricketing career.
At present, Shakib himself has taken a cautious stance. In a brief conversation with a private television channel, he remarked,
“I will consider the matter carefully and respond in due course.”
His absence from Bangladesh since the July 2023 political unrest prevented him from returning earlier.
Board Director Asif Akbar elaborated that while the primary agenda of the meeting was contracted players and grading, a director highlighted Shakib’s willingness to play and ongoing communication with the board. The matter has been forwarded to the board president to coordinate with the government. He added,
“Shakib Al Hasan is more than just a cricketer; he is a brand. Players of his calibre are rare, and it is crucial for us to have him in the team for years to come.”
Below is a summary table of the key points discussed at the BCB meeting:
| Matter | Details |
|---|---|
| Board Meeting Date | 24 January 2026 |
| Decision | Reconsider Shakib for future squad selections |
| Central Contract | Proposal for reinclusion under central contract scheme |
| International Tournaments | NOC to be issued if required |
| Legal Matters | Coordination with government to resolve any issues |
| Shakib’s Response | Cautious; plans to respond thoughtfully |
| Political Context | Absent from Bangladesh since July 2023 political unrest |
Cricket analysts have welcomed the move, noting that Shakib’s experience, leadership, and all-round capabilities would be invaluable to guiding Bangladesh’s next generation of players. The board’s focus remains on ensuring fitness, resolving legal matters, and facilitating a swift return to the national side.