Bangladesh Cricket Board Intensifies Efforts for Shakib Al Hasan's Return
The ongoing saga surrounding veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has entered a new phase, with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) actively pursuing his potential comeback to international cricket. According to recent developments, the board is targeting his return as early as the upcoming home series against Pakistan scheduled for March.
BCB's Concrete Plans and Communication Channels
BCB director Asif Akbar has confirmed that the board maintains regular communication with Shakib and is working systematically toward his reintegration into the national team. "We are communicating with Shakib on a regular basis and he is keen to play," Akbar revealed to Cricbuzz. "If everything goes according to our plan, we are hoping to bring him back before the home series against Pakistan."
The board's approach appears to be more than symbolic, with Akbar emphasizing that this forms part of a genuine, ongoing strategy rather than a public relations exercise. The three-match ODI series against Pakistan is scheduled for March 12, 14, and 16, with the Test leg following in May after the Pakistan Cricket Board proposed splitting the series due to the Pakistan Super League.
Legal Hurdles and Government Engagement
Shakib's primary concerns revolve around personal security and ongoing harassment cases, matters currently under government examination. "These are not under our jurisdiction," Akbar acknowledged regarding the legal issues. However, the BCB has taken proactive steps, with board members nearly unanimously supporting Shakib's return.
The board has tasked its president with engaging government authorities to help resolve these legal obstacles. "Our president was given the responsibility to discuss the matter with the government – that we want Shakib, and the government should look into his legal issues," Akbar explained, emphasizing the focused nature of these discussions.
Ashraful's Vision: Beyond Farewell to 2027 World Cup
While officials target March for Shakib's possible return, batting coach Mohammad Ashraful presents a broader perspective. Ashraful believes that if Shakib makes his international comeback, the ambition should extend well beyond a farewell appearance. Instead, he suggests the former captain should set his sights on representing Bangladesh at the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Ashraful advocates for a selective format approach that could maximize Shakib's value to the team. "I personally think that in today's cricket, if you play only one format... if he wants to focus only on that, as long as he wants and as long as he performs, he can keep playing," Ashraful told Cricbuzz.
He specifically pointed to ODI cricket as a realistic target: "Since there is a World Cup coming after another year [2027 ODI World Cup]... if Shakib wants to continue only ODI cricket for Bangladesh up to the 2027 World Cup, his age will be around 37–38. And with the way workload is managed in modern cricket, playing up to 40–42 is not an issue at all."
Shakib's Current Status and Franchise League Activity
Ashraful noted that Shakib's continued participation in global franchise tournaments strengthens the case for a limited-format role with the national team. "That would be good because he is fit, and he is playing all the franchise tournaments," he observed. "Since he plays all franchise leagues, and if for Bangladesh he continues only ODIs with World Cup planning, then it will be good for everyone."
Shakib himself has remained cautious about outlining specific plans. When contacted following the BCB's announcement, he responded with measured optimism: "Let's see what happens," acknowledging the complexity surrounding his potential return.
Recent Challenges and Political Context
The all-rounder's journey has been marked by significant challenges over the past year. Following the fall of the Awami League government, Shakib – a former Member of Parliament under the previous regime – was unable to return home and has effectively lived in exile, missing international cricket for over a year.
In September 2024, Bangladesh's sports advisor Asif Mahmud publicly stated that Shakib would not be allowed to represent the country after he wished former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on her birthday. This period marked the first time a government official openly confirmed his exclusion from the national side.
Additionally, Shakib faced bowling action concerns during his county stint with Surrey in 2024, resulting in suspension before being cleared after reassessment. He later admitted that excessive bowling had affected his action, partly intentionally.
Future Prospects and Unresolved Questions
Despite these obstacles, Shakib has maintained that staying fit remains central to his hope of returning home and wearing Bangladesh colors once again. His recent expressions about wanting to play all three formats in front of home fans before officially retiring align with the BCB's current approach.
However, whether this journey culminates in March against Pakistan or extends toward the 2027 World Cup remains uncertain. What is clear is that the conversation around his potential comeback has gained significant momentum, with multiple stakeholders now actively engaged in shaping what could be one of Bangladesh cricket's most significant returns in recent years.
