Shakib Al Hasan Announced Captain Of This Bangladesh Team

All-rounder Shakib Al Hasan to represent Bangladesh again [Source: AFP]

In surprising news, Shakib Al Hasan has been appointed captain of the Bangladesh Tigers for the Asian Legends League (ALL), a T20 franchise tournament featuring retired and former international cricketers from Asia. 

The tournament is set to kick off on July 30, with Sri Lanka Lions beating Afghanistan Panthers by 15 runs. As for Bangladesh Tigers, they will begin their campaign on July 31 against the India Royals.

Shakib Al Hasan to represent Bangladesh again in this league

Interestingly, the Bangladesh Tigers unveiled their squad for the Asian Legends League 2026, and veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been named captain. 

Although Shakib is no longer part of the Bangladesh national team, he remains active in franchise cricket around the world. Before ALL, he played in MLC and LPL as well. However, he is yet to return to his home country since 2024.

Apart from Shakib Al Hasan, the squad will also feature former cricketers like Rubbel Hossain, Ariful Haque, Mehedy Maruf and Muktar Ali. Former South African cricketer Herschelle Gibbs has been named head coach for Bangladesh in this tournament.

Notably, all games of the Asian Legends League 2026 season will be played at Lotus Sports Club Ground in Zambia. 

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Shakib’s captaincy came as a surprise

Interestingly, Shakib Al Hasan being appointed as captain of Bangladesh Tigers for the Asian Legends League 2026 season did come as a surprise, especially after the all-rounder fled from the country due to political confict and criminal cases.

Shakib has not been able to return to Bangladesh since the political unrest that followed the fall of the Awami League government in 2024. He has been dealing with legal cases and security concerns.

Because of those issues, he missed what was expected to be his farewell Test match in Dhaka. As a result, his international career has remained uncertain despite the BCB keeping the doors open for him. 

At such a time, Shakib representing Bangladesh again in a legends tournament confused fans.

Will Shakib Al Hasan return to Bangladesh?

Having said that, the BCB has left the door open for Shakib Al Hasan to return by stating that he is still eligible for national team selection. He can return if he is fit, available, and able to travel safely to matches.

The BCB is also willing to issue him NOCs for overseas franchise leagues, showing it has not cut ties with him. However, Shakib is yet to return to Bangladesh, and unless he returns to his home country, he stands no chance of a comeback.

Whether Shakib eventually returns to international cricket remains uncertain, but his appointment as Bangladesh Tigers captain ensures that one of the country's greatest cricketers continues to lead from the front.

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