Legendary Bangladesh cricketer may return in the upcoming Pakistan series amid ICC controversy

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is making strong efforts to bring former national captain Shakib Al Hasan back into the Bangladesh team. March is the most likely time for his return.

BCB officials said the plan is not to arrange a farewell series for the star all-rounder at this moment. Instead, the board wants Shakib to make a proper comeback and continue playing for the national team, not just for one series.

BCB director Asif Akbar confirmed that talks are already happening at a high level. Speaking to a Bangladeshi media outlet, Prothom Alo, he said, “Our board president is in contact with the government authorities about this issue. We hope Shakib can return to the national team during the home series against Pakistan in March.”

Also read -Rajasthan Royals set to become first billion-dollar franchise ahead of IPL 2026

Shakib Still Away From the National Team

Shakib Al Hasan has not returned to Bangladesh since August 5, 2024. He wanted to play the Mirpur Test against South Africa, but some issues stopped him from playing. After the tours of Pakistan and India, he has not played for the national team. Earlier plans about his retirement also did not work out.

Shakib Wants a Proper Farewell

In a recent interview with a Bangladeshi media, Shakib said he still wants to retire on a positive note.

“I still want to retire after playing a full series,” Shakib said. “That is why I am still playing cricket. If I can finish after a series, it will feel right to me.”

BCB Working on His Return

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) decided to work on Shakib’s return in a board meeting on January 24. Board directors Amzad Hussain and Asif Akbar later confirmed that the government has been contacted to help bring him back.

However, the board wants Shakib to play for a longer time. 

“We want Shakib to play for Bangladesh again, starting with the Pakistan series,” Asif Akbar told in Bangladeshi media outlet Prothom alo. “First, we need to create the chance. After that, it will be his decision if he wants to continue.”

Bangladesh will host Pakistan for a three-match ODI series in March, before the Pakistan Super League later that month. Pakistan will also return in May for a two-match Test series.