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Shakib Al Hasan puts personal career first, playing for Bangladesh no longer a priority

Kaushik Kashyap

Shakib Al Hasan shifts focus away from Bangladesh cricket. [Source - AFP]Shakib Al Hasan shifts focus away from Bangladesh cricket. [Source - AFP]

In a significant development, Bangladesh’s veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has made it clear that playing for Bangladesh is no longer his main focus. The former captain, and one of the country’s greatest cricketers, is now prioritising his personal career and franchise cricket over international commitments.

His absence from the national team since September, 2024 has raised questions about his future in international cricket. While the Bangladesh Cricket Board maintains that the door is open, Shakib’s own appearance suggests a clear shift in priorities.

Shakib Al Hasan steps away from Bangladesh focus

Shakib Al Hasan last represented Bangladesh during the Test series in India in 2024. He was expected to return for the home series against South Africa, but political tension, security concerns and strong public backlash stopped that from happening. Since then, Shakib Al Hasan has not played another international match.

In a recent talk with Ajker Patrika, Shakib Al Hasan acknowledged a shift in his mindset, revealing that playing for Bangladesh is no longer his primary motivation. Despite the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s recent comments on giving him another opportunity, Shakib’s stance on the matter remains loud and clear.

“I’m playing for myself now. As long as opportunities come my way [in franchise cricket], I will look to perform well,” Shakib said.

Over the past year, Shakib has been active mainly in franchise leagues across the world. He is currently playing in the ILT20 and remains open to opportunities in other leagues, including the Bangladesh Premier League, if schedules allow. His decisions are now mostly around where and when he can play freely.

Shakib Al Hasan also shed light on the circumstances surrounding his failed return, pointing to government restrictions and safety concerns. He made it clear that such involvement was proof that if the board depends on the government, it shows interference, and the board's failure to make his return possible.

In conclusion, Shakib Al Hasan continues to play cricket for the love of the game. While he has recently clarified that he is not retired from any format of cricket, there is no strong push from him to return to international duty. As a result, his two-decade journey appears to be going toward a close in Bangladesh colours, shaped more by external factors than on-field form.