Shakib Al Hasan (Source:X)In a significant development, the Bangladesh Cricket Board has intensified efforts to bring Shakib Al Hasan back into the Bangladesh team, with the home series against Pakistan in March emerging as the most likely window for his return.Shakib Al Hasan has not returned to Bangladesh since 2024. Although he was keen to play the Test match against South Africa at Mirpur later that year, circumstances prevented his participation. Shakib Al Hasan last played an ODI match against Sri Lanka on November 6, 2023. In the longest format, he played against India at Kanpur in 2024.Since then, he has not featured for the side despite continuing to play franchise cricket around the world.BCB targets Shakib Al Hasan's return vs Pakistan seriesAccording to BCB officials, the board is not planning a farewell series for the successful all-rounder at this stage. Instead, the aim is to facilitate a proper comeback and allow Shakib to continue playing for Bangladesh beyond just one series.BCB director Asif Akbar, speaking to Prothom Alo, confirmed that discussions are already taking place at the highest level. He said the board president is in contact with government authorities to resolve the legal and political matters that previously kept Shakib out of the team."We want Shakib to play for Bangladesh again, starting with the Pakistan series,” Asif Akbar told Prothom Alo. "First, the opportunity needs to be created. Whether he continues playing after that will be his decision."Government clearance to play major role for Shakib’s returnThe board formally decided to pursue Shakib’s return during a meeting held on January 24. Directors Amzad Hossain and Asif Akbar later confirmed that the government has been approached to facilitate the process.Shakib Al Hasan's absence from the team has been closely linked to political sensitivities. A former Awami League Member of Parliament, he was sidelined following the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government. Since then, his availability for Bangladesh has depended heavily on government clearance. Despite the uncertainty, Shakib has repeatedly expressed his desire to retire on a positive note. In an interview with BDCricTime, he said his goal remains unchanged.“I still want to retire after playing a series properly,” Shakib said. “That’s why I’m still playing cricket. If I can finish after a series, it would feel right to me."Earlier, Shakib had also outlined a clear farewell plan, stating that he wants to return home, play a full series across formats, and say goodbye in front of fans.Shakib likely to be retained in central contract listIt is important to mention that the BCB has also taken a major step by likely retaining Shakib in the central contract list and confirming that he will be considered for selection, subject to government approval. Additionally, the board has assured that he will be granted NOCs to participate in overseas franchise leagues.This renewed focus on Shakib Al Hasan came at a time when Bangladesh cricket is facing a challenging phase. The announcement coincided with the ICC's decision to remove Bangladesh from the T20 World Cup 2026. The Tigers were replaced with Scotland after Bangladesh refused to travel to India, citing security concerns. Many believe Shakib's possible return has helped shift attention away from that setback. Bangladesh is set to host Pakistan for a three-match ODI series in March and a two-match Test series in May, all attention will now be on Shakib Al Hasan and whether necessary clearance will be granted to him.
