Former Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan may return to international cricket soon. Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) officials have confirmed that they are working on a plan to bring him back, possibly before the home ODI series against Pakistan.
Bangladesh batting coach Mohammad Ashraful believes that if Shakib returns, he should not retire soon and should aim to play in the 2027 ODI World Cup.
What BCB Is Planning
The Bangladesh Cricket Board says the plan to bring Shakib back is serious and not just symbolic.
BCB director Asif Akbar confirmed that:
- BCB is in regular contact with Shakib
- Shakib is interested in playing again
- The board hopes to bring him back before the Pakistan series
Bangladesh will host Pakistan national cricket team for a three-match ODI series on March 12, 14, and 16. The Test matches will be played later in May.
Like to know? Bangladesh Cricket Schedule 2026-27
Main Concern: Security and Legal Issues
According to BCB officials, Shakib’s main concern is his personal security and some harassment-related cases filed against him. These issues are being reviewed by the government.
Important points shared by Asif Akbar:
- Around 23 out of 25 BCB board members want Shakib back
- BCB President has been asked to talk with the government
- Legal matters are not under BCB’s control
Ashraful’s Opinion: Think Long-Term
Mohammad Ashraful feels Shakib should rethink his retirement plans.
He believes:
- Modern cricketers can play longer with proper workload management
- Players now often focus on one format only
- Shakib can play only ODIs and prepare for the 2027 World Cup
Ashraful said that by 2027, Shakib will be around 37–38 years old, which is not a problem in today’s cricket.
Why Playing Until 2027 Makes Sense
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Fitness | Shakib is fit and active in franchise leagues |
| Experience | His experience is valuable for Bangladesh |
| Workload | Playing only ODIs reduces pressure |
| Team Benefit | Helps Bangladesh plan better for World Cup |
Ashraful also pointed out that Shakib is not inactive and regularly plays in different franchise tournaments around the world.
Shakib’s Current Position
When asked about his return, Shakib did not give a clear answer and said:
“Let’s see what happens.”
This shows he understands the situation is complicated and depends on many factors.
Past Issues and Exile
Some key background points:
- In 2024, Shakib announced retirement from T20Is
- He wanted to retire from Tests after a home series, subject to security clearance
- He did not get clearance and stayed outside Bangladesh
- A government official later said Shakib would not be allowed to play after a political controversy
Shakib last played international cricket in 2024, against Pakistan and India.
Bowling Action and Comeback Hope
In 2024, Shakib was also reported for a suspect bowling action during his county stint with Surrey. He was suspended but later cleared after corrective tests.
Currently:
- He is playing franchise cricket
- Staying fit and match-ready
- Hoping to return home and play for Bangladesh again
Read more: Litton Das Captaincy Record in T20I, ODI, Test & BPL (All Formats)
Shakib Al Hasan’s return to Bangladesh cricket is still uncertain, but the intention from BCB is clear. Mohammad Ashraful believes that if Shakib comes back, Bangladesh should use his experience wisely and aim for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
