The Bangladesh national team’s fitness trainer has expressed strong optimism that star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan will make his return to international cricket in peak physical condition, easing concerns over his fitness despite an extended absence from the national setup.
Shakib, regarded as one of Bangladesh’s most accomplished cricketers, remains a key figure in ongoing discussions within the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) regarding his future involvement with the national side. Although no official timeframe has been confirmed for his return, team officials continue to monitor his situation closely.
Speaking on Wednesday at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, where the national conditioning camp is currently underway, fitness trainer Iftikhar Ifti provided an encouraging assessment of the veteran cricketer’s physical status.
He stressed that Shakib, as an elite international sportsman, continues to follow a disciplined and structured fitness programme even while based abroad. According to him, the cricketer maintains regular contact with his personal fitness trainer, physiotherapist, and nutrition specialists, ensuring that his conditioning remains at a professional level.
“He is an international star,” Ifti said. “Even while staying outside the country, he maintains his fitness. From what I can understand, he has his own trainer, physio, and nutrition support. I do not think he is lacking training facilities. In fact, he is probably being monitored more closely than what we could manage here.”
The trainer further noted that the BCB currently does not have access to detailed or up-to-date fitness data on Shakib. However, based on his experience and observation, he remains confident that the all-rounder will be fully match-ready whenever he returns to competitive cricket.
Fitness and Monitoring Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Player | Shakib Al Hasan |
| Current Location | Outside Bangladesh |
| Fitness Support System | Personal trainer, physiotherapist, nutritionist |
| BCB Data Availability | Not currently available |
| Expected Condition on Return | Fully fit (anticipated) |
| Selection Status | Not yet confirmed |
Ifti also clarified that no final decision has yet been made regarding when Shakib will be available for national selection. He described the matter as one of national importance that requires structured planning at board level rather than individual decision-making.
“His situation is a national matter,” he explained. “We have not yet developed any fixed plan regarding his return or involvement. When he comes back and when the BCB considers him ready, we will prepare a structured plan involving him.”
His remarks come as the BCB continues to review long-term squad planning and workload management strategies ahead of upcoming international fixtures, with particular attention given to senior players and their physical readiness.
Beyond Shakib’s case, the trainer also addressed broader perceptions of fitness standards within Bangladesh cricket. Responding to criticism that players lack discipline in maintaining physical conditioning, he rejected such claims and highlighted clear improvements in recent years.
“Many people say our players are not responsible or not fit enough,” he said. “But the reality is quite different. Players are now far more aware. They remain in constant communication with trainers and physiotherapists. There has been a clear positive change in their mindset and routines.”
He added that modern training methods, improved support structures, and closer coordination between players and coaching staff have significantly strengthened the overall fitness culture within Bangladesh cricket.
As discussions continue regarding Shakib’s eventual return, the national camp remains focused on preparation and conditioning, with officials reiterating that any selection will depend on verified fitness assessments and the team’s requirements at the appropriate time.