BCB wants to recall Shakib for the Pakistan series

After a prolonged absence from the national team, former captain and world-class all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan appears set for a much-anticipated return to Bangladesh cricket. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is reportedly planning to reintegrate Shakib into the team during the upcoming home series against Pakistan in March.

Shakib has not featured in Bangladesh since August 2024. Although he expressed a desire to play in the Mirpur Test against South Africa, circumstances prevented his participation. Following tours to Pakistan and India, Shakib remained absent from national duties, and speculation about his retirement further clouded his international future.

BCB officials have clarified that there are currently no plans to organise a farewell series for Shakib. Instead, the board is aiming for a full-fledged comeback, allowing him to contribute actively to the national side for a limited period before considering retirement.

In an interview with a national daily, BCB Director Asif Akbar stated:
“Our board president has been in touch with the relevant government authorities. We are hopeful that Shakib will return to the national team during the home series against Pakistan in March.”

Shakib himself has also given a positive signal in a recent interview:
“I still want to play a series properly before retiring. That’s why I continue to play cricket. If I can finish a series on a good note, it will feel right to me.”

A decision on Shakib’s comeback was reportedly made at the BCB board meeting on 24 January, with directors Amzad Hossain and Asif Akbar confirming that the government has been involved to facilitate his return.

According to the schedule, Bangladesh will host Pakistan for a three-match ODI series in March, followed by a two-match Test series in May. These fixtures are expected to serve as the platform for Shakib’s reintegration and potentially mark a new chapter in his international career.

The BCB hopes that Shakib’s return will not only boost the team’s performance but also provide fans an opportunity to witness the iconic all-rounder in action once more. With both the board and the player showing enthusiasm, March could herald Shakib’s long-awaited return to international cricket, offering him a fitting stage to conclude his illustrious career on his own terms.