Former Bangladesh cricket captain and globally acclaimed all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has clarified his long-awaited return plans to Bangladesh after an extended period abroad. He has expressed optimism that, if circumstances proceed as intended, he could return home by the end of 2026.
Shakib has been residing outside Bangladesh since the major political upheaval on 5 August 2024, which significantly altered the country’s political landscape. Prior to these developments, he had been elected as a Member of Parliament from the Magura-2 constituency. However, following the change in political circumstances, multiple legal cases were filed against him, including some involving serious allegations. These ongoing legal complications have prevented his return, leading him to remain in the United States with his family.
Speaking recently at a jersey launch event for an international sporting initiative in India, Shakib shared in an interview with an Indian media outlet that there is a realistic possibility of returning home by the end of the current year, provided that conditions gradually normalise. He emphasised that while a return is inevitable in principle, no definitive timeline can yet be confirmed.
He also reflected on his emotional connection to Bangladesh, stating that prolonged absence from his homeland has been difficult. Shakib expressed hope that the legal and administrative issues surrounding his situation would be resolved swiftly, enabling him to return without obstruction and resume a normal life in his country.
Current Situation Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Current residence | United States |
| Last visit to Bangladesh | October 2024 (during international fixtures) |
| Expected return | By end of 2026 |
| Reason for absence | Multiple legal cases and related complications |
| Outlook | Hopeful but uncertain |
Earlier this year, discussions emerged within the Bangladesh Cricket Board regarding the possibility of reintegrating Shakib into the national squad. Officials had reportedly begun collecting necessary legal documentation and forwarding it to the relevant government authorities. Initial expectations suggested that he might feature in a series against Pakistan as part of a potential comeback. However, those plans ultimately did not materialise.
Shakib has publicly suggested that previous cricket administrators showed intent to bring him back into the team but lacked effective execution. In his view, expressing willingness is not sufficient; concrete administrative and legal action is essential to make such a return feasible.
The current cricket administration, however, has taken a more conciliatory stance. Officials have indicated that once legal matters are resolved, the pathway for experienced players like Shakib to rejoin the national team would remain open. They have also expressed willingness to support any process that benefits the broader interests of Bangladesh cricket.
Shakib last represented Bangladesh in an international match in October 2024 against India. Since then, he has remained absent from national duty. He has long expressed a desire to play a proper farewell match for his country, a wish that remains unfulfilled.
Ultimately, Shakib’s return now depends on the progress of legal proceedings and administrative decisions. Meanwhile, cricket fans across Bangladesh continue to wait in anticipation, hoping to see one of the nation’s greatest ever cricketers back on home soil once again.