Shakib Al Hasan last represented Bangladesh in a Test series in India. He retired from T20 internationals last year and had planned to conclude his red-ball career after the home series against South Africa. However, political circumstances prevented him from returning to Bangladesh, and the left-handed all-rounder is determined not to retire without playing a full series at home.
Currently, Shakib is in the United Arab Emirates participating in the IL T20 league. Yesterday (Sunday), although he did not make a significant impact on debut, his team MI Emirates secured a victory. On the same day, speaking on the Bearded Before Wicket podcast with Moeen Ali, the former Bangladesh captain said, “I have not officially retired from all formats. This is the first time I am stating this. My plan is to return to Bangladesh, play a complete series in ODI, Test, and T20 formats, and then retire.”
He added, “I want to clarify that I will retire from all formats after completing a single series. It could be from T20 to ODI and Test, or Test, ODI, and T20. Either way, it is fine. But I want to play a full series before retiring. That is what I want.”
Shakib has not returned to Bangladesh since May 2024. Following the fall of the Awami League government, a murder case was filed against him. Although he was abroad during the July uprising, he played Tests in Pakistan and India. His last international match was the second Test against India in Kanpur.
When asked about returning to Bangladesh, Shakib said, “I am hopeful. That is why I am playing in the T20 league. I believe I will be able to return.” He expressed his desire to repay the love of fans, adding, “I think when a player commits to something, they try to stay true to it. Sudden changes are not right. Whether I play well or poorly, if I want to play, I might have a bad series, but I do not need that.”
He continued, “I feel this is sufficient. Fans have always supported me, and a home series would be a beautiful way to bid farewell and give something back to them.”
Shakib was elected as the Member of Parliament for his home district Magura in the January 2024 elections. He has not ended his political career, saying, “My cricket career is nearing its end, but my political career remains. I want to do this for Bangladesh and the people of Magura. This is my wish, which still exists. Let’s see where Allah leads me.”
Khaborwala/SS