Dhaka, December 8, 2025: Bangladesh cricket veteran Shakib Al Hasan has clarified that he has not retired from any format of international cricket and intends to play a full-fledged home series before stepping away from the game.
Shakib, who last represented Bangladesh in the Kanpur Test against India in October 2024, had been sidelined amid political and legal controversies. The all-rounder, a former lawmaker for the Awami League, had faced uncertainty following the party’s ouster during last year’s student-led uprising.
Speaking on YouTube’s “Beard Before Wicket” podcast, Shakib revealed that he is “officially not retired from all formats” and wants to conclude his international career by playing a complete series across T20Is, ODIs, and Tests.
“I want to play a whole series and retire. It can start from T20I, ODI and Test, or Test, ODI, T20I. Either way, I’m fine, but I want to finish with a full series,” he said.
Shakib had previously indicated his desire to participate in Bangladesh’s home series against South Africa, although he was not included in the squad, fueling speculation that the Kanpur Test might have been his final appearance. He emphasized that his decision depends on the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) facilitating a safe environment for him to return and play.
“I have discussed my plans about Test cricket with the BCB, especially this series and the home series. My last Test will be in Mirpur if everything is arranged safely,” he said. “I am a citizen of Bangladesh, so I shouldn’t have any problem going back. My concern is my safety and security. I hope things are getting better.”
For context, Shakib has had a stellar career, representing Bangladesh in 71 Tests, 247 ODIs, and 129 T20Is, amassing 14,730 runs across formats while taking 712 international wickets, cementing his status as one of the country’s greatest cricketers.
