Return of Shakib Al Hasan: BCB Initiative or Publicity Stunt

Dhaka, 26 January 2026: Bangladesh cricket is abuzz with speculation following an announcement that the nation’s most celebrated cricketer, Shakib Al Hasan, may be considered for a return to the national team. The decision by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has sparked debate over why the player, absent from international cricket for nearly eighteen months, is suddenly being considered for reinstatement. The news was first reported by the BBC.

Shakib last represented Bangladesh during the Kanpur Test against India in October 2024. Since then, he has been absent from the national side, with various reports suggesting that political considerations played a role in his exclusion, as highlighted by former sports advisor Asif Mahmud in media statements and on social platforms.

The announcement coincides with a period when Bangladesh has officially confirmed it will not participate in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup starting in February.

On Thursday, 22 January, following an eight-hour emergency meeting, the BCB held a press conference at approximately 10:00 PM to reveal that Shakib could potentially return to the team.

Potential Conditions for Shakib’s Return

According to Amjad Hossain, head of the BCB Media Committee, the board and selectors will evaluate Shakib’s availability, fitness, and ability to travel to the relevant venues before deciding on his inclusion. Shakib has expressed interest in returning and is reportedly open to participating in both home and away series. The final decision will depend on selectors’ assessments and the prevailing circumstances.

Political Dimensions Remain

Shakib was elected as a Member of Parliament for Magura-1 under the Awami League in January 2024, prompting scrutiny over his ability to balance parliamentary responsibilities with cricketing commitments. Further controversy arose from his absence during the July–August student protests, as Shakib was participating in a T20 league in Canada while the nation experienced civil unrest. Social media posts by his wife drew criticism from protesters.

Shakib’s name has also been linked to legal cases, including a murder investigation, share market irregularities, and anti-corruption commission inquiries. Despite these issues, he continued playing abroad in Pakistan and India under the previous government, although political tensions prevented his return for the South Africa series in October 2024.

BCB’s Position and Speculation

While the BCB has opened the door for Shakib’s potential comeback, officials emphasise that political clearance from the government is outside their remit. Analysts suggest the board’s announcement could be a strategic move to reclaim public confidence amid recent setbacks in ICC voting and international diplomacy. Some critics argue that the move may amount to a “publicity stunt,” given Shakib’s ongoing controversies both on and off the field.

Shakib himself has recently expressed interest in concluding his career with one final series across all three formats, raising questions about why a central contract is being discussed for a player nearing retirement.