Overview:
He emphasised that results or individual performances would not matter to him and he simply wants to show gratitude to the fans who have stood by him throughout his career.
Former Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan has taken a U-turn on his retirement from Tests and T20Is, declaring himself available for all three formats once again. Having stepped away from international duty last year, the veteran all-rounder is now eyeing a full return. His comeback will strengthen Bangladesh’s line-up across formats.
“I haven’t stepped away from any format, officially. This is the first time I’m making that clear. My intention is to return to Bangladesh, take part in one complete home series across ODIs, Tests, and T20Is, and then call time on my career,” Shakib mentioned on the Beard Before Wicket podcast alongside Moeen Ali, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.
“I’m open to finishing my career across a single series in any order — whether it begins with T20Is, then ODIs and Tests, or the other way around. I just want to be part of a complete series before I step away. That’s the way I’d like it,” Shakib explained.
Shakib Al Hasan has remained outside Bangladesh since May 2024, a period that coincided with the fall of the Awami League administration in early August. The former national captain previously served as a Member of Parliament for the party and was later mentioned in an FIR linked to an alleged murder incident, although he was abroad when the case surfaced. During his time away from home, Shakib continued his international duties in Tests played in Pakistan and India, with his last outing coming in the Kanpur Test against India.
When questioned about returning to Bangladesh, Shakib responded that he remains optimistic. “I am playing in T20 leagues with that goal in mind, and I think it will happen.”
Shakib Al Hasan has expressed his wish to feature in final home series, giving supporters a chance to watch him. He emphasised that results or individual performances would not matter to him and he simply wants to show gratitude to the fans who have stood by him throughout his career.
“When a player makes a statement, they usually stand by it. It’s not something they change overnight. Whether I perform well or not doesn’t really matter. Even if I have a poor series, if I still feel like playing. But I don’t think that’s necessary anymore. This feels like the right moment. It’s a more meaningful way to say goodbye to the fans who have always supported me by giving them something in return through a home series.”