Shakib Al Hasan is closer to returning home as the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has submitted legal documents related to his cases to the government on February 24. Shakib, who previously served as an Awami League Member of Parliament, has not been back in Bangladesh since the Sheikh Hasina government was removed in August 2024.
The 38-year-old wishes to play one final home series. His last match for Bangladesh was a Test against India in Kanpur in late 2024. Since then, he’s been focused on International franchise leagues and has not played for the national team for about a year and a half. Under the Yunus government, Shakib faced multiple legal challenges, including a murder case that many see as politically motivated due to his connections with the former administration.
The BCB recently expressed its intention to reinstate Shakib for the upcoming home series against Pakistan, following talks with him about a potential return. Aminul Haque, the new State Minister for Youth and Sports, mentioned that the government will work on resolving legal issues involving Shakib and former captain Mashrafe Mortaza, which would help them return to cricket. Mortaza, like Shakib, has stayed out of the public eye since their party lost power.
Aminul further explained that both former captains must have their cases resolved at the state level before they can resume their cricket careers. Subsequently, Shakib’s legal team prepared the necessary documentation, prompting the BCB to take steps toward facilitating his return for one last series.
Bangladesh batting coach Mohammad Ashraful believes Shakib might even participate in the 2027 World Cup. BCB officials confirmed this development shortly after Bangladesh ODI captain Mehidy Hasan expressed his excitement about potentially teaming up with Shakib again.
“We have submitted the documents regarding his (Shakib’s) cases to the government,” a senior BCB official stated.
“I would be thrilled to play alongside him again. We’ve had a long history together on the field. It has been a while since we last played together for the national team. If Shakib bhai plays [in the upcoming series against Pakistan], I would be very happy,” Miraz told the media.
