Shakib Al Hasan Sets His Sights At Bangladesh Return On One Condition

Shakib al Hasan [Source: AFP]

Shakib Al Hasan, one of Bangladesh’s most celebrated cricketers, is preparing for a possible return to the national side after a long absence. 

Although Shakib has not featured for Bangladesh since October 2024, he is now actively exploring a pathway back, aiming to close out his international career on a meaningful note.

However, Shakib’s time away from cricket has been shaped as much by politics as by sport. Having been associated with the Awami League, his absence coincided with a major political shift in the country following the resignation and exile of Sheikh Hasina in 2024.

Shakib Al Hasan's career interrupted by politics

As a result, he chose to remain outside Bangladesh, effectively putting his international career on hold. 

It is important to note that his last outing came in a Test match against India in Kanpur in late 2024. Since then, he has stayed active in global franchise leagues.

At the same time, his situation has been complicated by legal challenges. During the tenure of the Yunus-led administration, Shakib al Hasan became entangled in multiple cases, including a serious criminal charge. 

These developments have widely been viewed as politically influenced, given his earlier affiliations. Consequently, the uncertainty surrounding these cases has become a major factor delaying his return.

Shakib al Hasan sets one clear condition for Bangladesh return

Notably, Shakib al Hasan remains optimistic about returning and is keen to do so in the near future. 

However, the veteran all-rounder has set one clear condition, while he is prepared to go through the legal process, he insists it must happen without any intimidation or undue pressure.

“Nowadays, nothing seems unusual! Still, I am hopeful that such a thing will not happen. Until my guilt is proven, there should be no problem. But many things I thought would be one way are being done differently! Nothing is certain.” Shakib said in an event in Mumbai.

Despite these concerns, optimism remains central to his outlook. He stated, “(The hope of returning to the country) is absolutely there. I will return. I hope I can return soon.”

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Clarifying his expectations further, the former Bangladesh captain added, “I will return to the country, go to court, and fight these cases. That is no problem. But I have to be provided with security! I should be able to expect that. I am not saying that security means blocking the road for me or having a convoy of four police vehicles around me. I do not want that. 

"However, there are normal expectations of security, and I will not be harassed until the legal proceedings conclude. That is all I hope for. As an ordinary citizen, that is all I can expect. If I can get a guarantee that I will not be harassed tomorrow, I will head to the country the day after tomorrow.”

BCB shows willingness to support Shakib Al Hasan

Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Cricket Board has already initiated conversations about reintegrating him into the squad, particularly with an eye on an upcoming home series against Pakistan. 

Additionally, Aminul Haque, the newly appointed State Minister for Youth and Sports, has indicated that efforts are underway to address the legal hurdles that stand in his way.

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