Shakib Al Hasan last played for the national team against India in late 2023. During that tour, he announced his retirement from Tests and T20Is. He had expressed a desire to play his final Test match on home soil, but due to unfavorable circumstances, that couldn’t happen. Since the political change in the country, he has remained abroad and has not been able to return. Following that, the former Tigers captain was sidelined due to a bowling ban.
Shakib recently made his return to cricket through the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Although his team Lahore Qalandars became champions, the star Bangladeshi all-rounder could not deliver a standout performance. This has raised questions about his potential return to the national team.
On Monday (May 26), Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) Media Committee Chairman Iftikhar Rahman Mithu attended an event. When asked whether the chapter with Shakib is closed for BCB, he replied:
“Absolutely not. But considering our current team management and setup — plus this was Shakib’s first tournament (PSL) after correcting his action — it’s something we’ll have to observe going forward. But one thing is certain, he’s a world-class player.”
He added, “He (Shakib) is a valuable asset for any team. So, he’s always under the consideration of our team management and selectors. Since this is his first couple of matches after action correction, let him play a few more games, then we can give a clearer answer.”
