Shakib Al Hasan could return to Bangladesh cricket after the BCB confirmed on Saturday, following a board meeting in Dhaka, that it wants to include him in the new central contract list and bring him back into the national setup.
Shakib last played for Bangladesh in 2024 during the Test series against India. Political issues then kept him out of the team and away from the country.
BCB Media Committee chairman Amzad Hussain confirmed direct contact with the all-rounder, saying, “We asked Shakib whether he would be able to play both home and away series, and Shakib said he wants to play.” That answer effectively unlocked the board’s decision to move forward.
The board framed the move as a cricketing call rather than a political one. Amjad’s words made that clear, and they also showed the urgency to settle availability before finalising contracts.
BCB director Asif Akbar went further and drew a hard line between cricket and everything else. “What happens with Shakib’s personal issues is a separate matter and a government issue. From the board’s side, we want Shakib,” he said, a statement that places responsibility firmly outside cricket administration.
Asif underlined Shakib’s value to Bangladesh cricket in emotional terms. “Shakib is a brand, a player we will not get again even in 100 years,” he said, a reminder that numbers and impact still trump controversy inside the boardroom.
The board also tied the decision to fitness and sentiment. Asif said, “When we prepare the contracted players list, we discussed Shakib’s wish to retire in the country and the love people have for him, and if his fitness is right, we will consider him.” That condition keeps the door open without offering guarantees.
Asif pushed back against suggestions of legal hesitation. “If the government wants to do something, that is a legal matter. Shakib was a player before he became a Member of Parliament. Bangladesh’s name was on his chest,” he said, stressing respect for the cricketer over the context.
He closed with a firm stance on intent. “We have decided that Shakib will play. We have spoken with him over the last few days. He has shown interest, and we believe the player Shakib deserves respect,” a line that leaves little doubt about the board’s direction.
