Shakib Al Hasan says he now believes entering politics after retirement might have been the ideal path, though he felt his decision in 2023 was logical at the time.
The former Bangladesh captain reflected on his political journey and how he balanced cricket with public life while still planning the final stage of his career.
“Looking back, maybe it would have been better to enter politics after retirement — that might have been the ideal scenario,” Shakib said in an interview with Sportstar.
Shakib joined politics before Bangladesh’s December 2023 national election and later became a Member of Parliament while he was still an active international cricketer.
Although he admits the timing wasn’t right, he defends his plans.
“But when I decided to contest the elections in December 2023, I was clear in my mind that the 2025 Champions Trophy would be my last appearance for Bangladesh. In that sense, I saw it as a post-retirement plan anyway. That’s why the timing felt right to me.”
At that point, Shakib believed he was preparing for life after cricket while still finishing his playing career.
His plans later became more difficult because of political change in Bangladesh and the legal issues that followed.
Still, Shakib defended his approach and said people from every profession use their own work to connect with society.
“People from different walks of life try to make an impact in politics through their work.”
He used the example of doctors and other professionals to explain his thinking.
“A doctor, for instance, earns goodwill through service, helping people, offering treatment, and building trust. Similarly, individuals from other professions connect with people in their own ways.”
Shakib said cricket gave him his own platform to build that connection.
“In my case, I used my cricketing career and popularity to reach out to people.”
He also accepted that people may judge his decision differently.
“I don’t think the approach was wrong, but of course, people are entitled to see it differently.”
