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BCB Director shares final verdict on Shakib Al Hasan’s Bangladesh return

Soumyajit Dutta

Shakib Al Hasan [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X]Shakib Al Hasan [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X]

Bangladesh star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan was last seen on the cricket field in October 2024, representing his side in the whites against India at Kanpur. Since then, due to political turmoil, Shakib’s prospects of returning to play for his country have remained in muddy waters.

In a recent development, his potential return to the national side has been given a new twist, as Bangladesh Cricket Board director Amzad Hossain shared a unique perspective on Shakib Al Hasan’s future.

It is important to note that earlier, Shakib had expressed his wish to play a farewell series at home. However, whether that wish will turn into reality remains unclear, with Amzad clearly maintaining a fine line between individual brilliance and team selection.

Key factors that will play a role in Shakib's return

Amzad addressed Shakib’s current physical fitness and condition, stating that he is fit enough to play for several more years.

"Considering Shakib Al Hasan’s fitness and current form, I believe he is capable of continuing at the top level for several more years,” Hossain said.

However, his return to the side does not depend solely on his physical ability or individual brilliance. It also rests with the national selection committee, which holds the authority to bring him back into the team.

"Whether he plays for Bangladesh or not is entirely a matter for the selectors. The committee will pick whoever they deem necessary for the team's needs at any given time," Hossain added.

Amzad further explained that the BCB would select only those players they believe are necessary for the team at a given time. He also stated that Shakib is currently not available for selection as he is not in the country. Once he makes himself available, he could be given a fair chance to make a return.

"In the current situation, he isn't available for selection as he is out of the country. But in the future, if he returns and maintains his fitness and form... we would all likely be interested in seeing him play again. Cricket is a game for everyone, regardless of party or opinion," Hossain stated.

Why Shakib Al Hasan is out of Bangladesh cricket scenario?

For the uninitiated, since the collapse of the Awami League government, Shakib Al Hasan has not returned to Bangladesh, having also served as a member of parliament. He is currently playing in overseas franchise leagues, and his availability for the national side remains under a cloud.

The southpaw has amassed over 4,600 runs in Test cricket, along with 7,570 runs and 317 wickets in ODIs. His brilliance also transcends to T20Is, where he boasts 149 wickets and 2,551 runs to his name.