BCB wants Shakib to return for the Pakistan series

Bangladesh cricket is poised to witness the potential return of its former captain and world-renowned all-rounder, Shakib Al Hasan, as the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) looks to reintegrate him into the national team. The board is reportedly planning to bring Shakib back to international cricket during the home series against Pakistan in March.

Shakib, who has been absent from Bangladesh since August 2024, had expressed a keen interest in participating in the Mirpur Test against South Africa. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, that opportunity did not materialise. Since then, he has not featured in the national colours, including the tours to Pakistan and India.

Discussions regarding a farewell series for the star all-rounder were previously ongoing but ultimately remained inconclusive. BCB officials have now clarified that there are no immediate plans for a separate farewell series. Instead, the board’s priority is a full-fledged return, allowing Shakib to play for the national side for some additional period before retirement.

Speaking to a national daily, BCB Director Asif Akbar stated, “Our board president is coordinating with the relevant government authorities. We are optimistic that Shakib will be back in the national team for the home series against Pakistan in March.”

Shakib himself has offered encouraging signals about his return in a recent interview with another daily newspaper. “I still want to play a series properly before retiring. That is why I am continuing with cricket. If I can complete one full series before retirement, that will feel right to me,” he remarked.

On 24 January, the BCB board convened to make a formal decision regarding Shakib’s comeback. Directors Amjad Hossain and Asif Akbar later confirmed that the government has also been involved in facilitating the process.

According to the schedule, Bangladesh will host Pakistan for a three-match One Day International (ODI) series in March. This will be followed by a two-match Test series in May, again featuring Pakistan in Dhaka. The BCB believes that these fixtures could mark the beginning of a new chapter in Shakib Al Hasan’s international career.

Scheduled Series Overview:

With Shakib’s return, Bangladesh hopes to strengthen its squad with the experience of one of cricket’s most prolific all-rounders, potentially enhancing team performance across formats. The home series against Pakistan now carries heightened anticipation, as fans and officials alike look forward to seeing Shakib back in action on the international stage.