In a recent interview with Cricbuzz, Shakib Al Hasan said he has no regrets while reflecting on 2024’s political uprising in Bangladesh. He said it was just one moment that went against him. People expected him to act differently, but he was abroad at the time. He respects the feelings of the people, but he does not regret his actions.
Last year, Bangladesh faced a major political uprising in July and August. The Awami League government lost power during this period.
Earlier in January, Shakib won a seat in parliament on the Awami League’s ticket. The election was controversial and faced criticism.
During the uprising, students and citizens faced severe force and violence under the government led by Sheikh Hasina. Shakib stayed silent. People expected him to speak, but he did not.
After the government fell, Shakib largely stayed away from public life. Once the “poster boy” of Bangladesh cricket, he is now excluded from the national team.
Shakib has not officially retired, but his return seems unlikely. Recently, Youth and Sports Advisor Asif Mahmud Sojib Bhuiyan said Shakib would not play for the national team again. He also called him a “collaborator of dictatorship.”
Despite this, Shakib plays regularly in franchise cricket. He took part in the Caribbean Premier League, Canada Global T20, and the Minor League Cricket in the United States.
He led Atlanta Fire to a title win. In the interview, he spoke openly about his career and his role during last year’s unrest.
Shakib also spoke about retirement. He has not retired from any format. He wants to end his career at the Home of Cricket. He said this would be more meaningful for his fans than for himself.
If it happens, he said it would be the most beautiful moment for him and his supporters.
However, the chance of returning seems very slim. The path to a national team comeback looks difficult. His dream of a proper farewell may remain unfulfilled.
