Recently, during a press conference ahead of the India vs Bangladesh second test, Shakib Al Hasan announced his retirement from the Test format.
Also, Shakib confirmed that he already played his final T20I, and decided to declare his farewell next month in the upcoming home test series against South Africa that is scheduled to take place from October 21 to November 02. Meanwhile, he expressed his safety concerns and fears regarding unrest and violence in Bangladesh.
Protestors vs. Politician conflict affects Shakib Al Hasan’s Return to Bangladesh.
The conflict between the police team force, and anti-government protestors has devastated the country in the last few months.
Due to the nation’s unrest, Shakib was named in Mohammed Rubel’s murder case. It had accused former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and other ministers of Awami League Party. And, because of all these happenings, Shakib is more concerned about his safety.
Shakib Al Hasan explained the reason for his fear and concern, saying: “For me, it is not a concern about returning to Bangladesh, but once after I reach there it would be very dangerous to leave again.”
Champions Trophy 2025 is the Shakib Al Hasan’s last ODI play
During a recent press meeting, Shakib told reporters that he will be playing his final ODI assignment for Bangladesh in the 2025 Champions Trophy.
With his shocking announcement, Shakib Al Hasan made it clear that the Super Eights match of Bangladesh vs. Afghanistan in the 2024 T20 World Cup was his final T20I.
In October 2024, Bangladesh will be playing a home Test series against South Africa. Despite the series being doubted to be played, now it is likely to be moving forward after the governing body, the Cricket South Africa delegation was completely convinced by the nation’s security after the unrest.
Since his debut in 2006, Shakib Al Hasan excelled playing 446 international matches which included:
- 70 Test matches
- 247 ODI matches
- 129 T20Is matches
Undoubtedly, Shakib Al Hasan is one of the most talented all-rounders in the present day, having a successful track record that includes more than 10,000 international runs and 500 international wickets to his name.
Shakib Expresses willingness to play T20s anytime
Although Shakib Al Hasan has confirmed that he will not be playing T20 cricket, he expresses his willingness to play T20 anytime. He said whenever the team needs him, Shakib will be available to be a part of T20 matches.
Here is what Shakib Al Hasan voiced about his willingness to play T20 cricket: “YES! As of now, I have declared that I will be playing only the franchise leagues, but either after a few months or a year, Bangladesh Cricket Board requires me, I am certainly ready to be a part of T20s. I would always be happier to contribute to the nation and if at that point my fitness is good with the right form, then I will surely play the T20s too. But currently, I cannot assure myself being in T20s.”
Ever since 2007, Shakib Al Hasan has been a part of the Bangladesh team for every edition of the T20 World Cup. The 37-year-old talented cricketer finished the 2024 edition for bagging the highest number of wickets starting from the inaugural season to the ninth edition of the tournament — racking up 50 wickets in 43 matches. Unfortunately, fans are disappointed as Shakib confirmed that particular tournament to be his last appearance in that format.
INDIA vs. BANGLADESH Second Test be Shakib’s Last Test?
Distancing himself from T20Is, Shakib also talked about his retirement decision from Test cricket. Also, he plans to play his last Test match on home soil (Mirpur), but if Shakib Al Hasan is prevented due to security concerns, and he might not return to Bangladesh. In this case, the IND vs BAN second Test in Kanpur will be Shakib’s final appearance in Test matches.
“Certainly! Already I have revealed my desire to play my last Test in Mirpur, and if it is not possible due to some unexpected reasons, I will be playing my final appearance in the second Test against India will be my last.”
Shakib Al Hasan’s retirement is chance for Younger Players
Amidst many political conflicts and unrest due to protests in the nation, Shakib Al Hasan has confirmed his retirement. The 37-year-old skilled all-rounder cricketer has stated that his decision was not due to the situation in Bangladesh or any frustration. He confirms that he felt this could be the right time to step down, leaving the chance to younger players.
Shakib Al Hasan focuses on the reason for his decision, saying: “I want to confirm again that already I have spoken about T20s and I had discussed the same with members of the Board. Also, I have communicated with the BCB’s president and selectors that I would be moving away from T20s and I want this to be a valuable opportunity for the upcoming talented players in the Bangladesh Team.”