Shakib Al Hasan's Comeback Blocked By Bangladesh Vs Pakistan

Shakib Al Hasan's comeback delayed further [Source: X]

In a significant development, veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been excluded from the Bangladesh team days before the high-voltage series against Pakistan. Bangladesh are set to take on Pakistan in three ODI matches at home, with the series starting on March 11. 

Shakib Al Hasan was expected to make his international comeback with the Pakistan ODI series. However, the Bangladesh Cricket Board has excluded the seasoned campaigner, meaning he won't feature in the highly anticipated bilateral series. 

Shakib Al Hasan tipped to make comeback in PAK Vs BAN ODIs

Talismanic cricketer Shakib Al Hasan left Bangladesh after the Mohammad Yunus-led party dethroned Sheikh Hasina's Awami League to take the reins as the ruling government. 

As the ace all-rounder was one of Hasina's close allies, he immediately fled the country, seeking shelter abroad. As a result, the Bangladesh Cricket Board refrained from including him in the team, significantly jeopardising Shakib's international career. 

However, Bangladesh's upcoming home series against Pakistan came as a lifeline for Shakib Al Hasan, as he was tipped to make a much-awaited comeback. 

Also read: Shakib Al Hasan Receives Bangladesh Return For Pakistan Series Verdict From Najmul Shanto

As revealed by one of the BCB officials, the Bangladesh board was in constant touch with the all-rounder, who confirmed his availability for a farewell game at home before he bids adieu to the game. 

Shakib Al Hasan excluded from Bangladesh squad for Pakistan ODIs

In a shocking development, the BCB has reportedly snubbed Shakib Al Hasan from the Bangladesh squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan at home. 

As reported by Prothom Alo, the BCB selectors have already finalised the squad, with Shakib being the most notable omission. BdCrictime reported that the experienced cricketer is still involved in unresolved legal disputes, which is why he has been left out of the squad. 

Meanwhile, the BCB director, Asif Akbar, is still hopeful of Shakib's return for the New Zealand series. 

"He will come, InshaAllah, very soon. When he will complete the fitness and selection rounds...he is currently giving more priority to the New Zealand tour," Akbar was quoted as saying by The Daily Sun. 

How Shakib's international career went downhill?

Inarguably Bangladesh's greatest-ever cricketer, Shakib Al Hasan's cricket career was derailed following political turmoil in the country. 

The much-talked-about students' protest led to Sheikh Hasina's indefinite exile, as several prominent personalities, including Shakib, fled the country for security reasons. 

The southpaw also witnessed legal charges being filed against him and hasn't returned to his homeland since. 

Although the BCB claims to have resumed talks with him, Shakib doesn't seem to make his international comeback anytime soon. 

His final appearance for the Tigers came at the fag end of 2024 when his side crossed swords against India in a Test series. Although he bagged four wickets in the first innings, Shakib managed only nine runs, including a duck, in his final Test for the Bangladesh team. 

Bangladesh Vs Pakistan ODI series schedule

Recently, the Tigers suffered a major setback when the ICC expelled them and announced Scotland as their T20 World Cup replacement due to a persistent logistical deadlock.  

After missing out on the marquee event, the Bangladeshi players are gearing up for a strong comeback in the upcoming series against Pakistan. The three-match series kicks off on March 11, with the subsequent ODIs taking place on the 13th and 15th of the month. 

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