Shakib Al Hasan Launches Digital News Platform

Bangladesh’s former cricket captain and global sporting icon Shakib Al Hasan is set to enter a new professional arena as he prepares to launch a digital media outlet, marking yet another diversification in his multifaceted career spanning sport, business, and public life.

Currently residing in the United States amid a politically sensitive period that has kept him away from Bangladesh, Shakib is reportedly developing an online news platform titled “Beyond Bangla”, which is expected to go live shortly. The initiative represents his formal entry into media ownership and publishing.

According to Shakib himself, the platform will operate as a bilingual news service, producing content in both Bengali and English. While its primary editorial focus will remain Bangla-language journalism, the inclusion of English content is intended to broaden its international reach and attract a global audience interested in South Asian affairs.

A Digital-First News Venture

Unlike traditional media outlets, Beyond Bangla will function entirely as a digital-first platform. It will combine written journalism with multimedia storytelling, including video reports, visual explainers, and feature-driven content.

Shakib confirmed that the platform will be headquartered operationally from the United States, where he is currently based. Despite this international base, the editorial emphasis will remain strongly connected to Bangladesh, both in subject matter and audience focus.

Editorial Scope and Content Strategy

The upcoming platform is expected to cover a wide range of topics, reflecting a broad newsroom structure rather than a niche publication. Planned coverage areas include:

• National politics
• Economic developments
• International affairs
• Sports journalism
• Entertainment and culture

Shakib has indicated that the platform will aim to prioritise exclusive reporting and original content, positioning itself in a competitive digital media landscape.

“I will try to ensure that we produce exclusive news and original stories,” he said, outlining the editorial ambition behind the venture.

Overview of “Beyond Bangla”

Expansion Beyond Cricket and Politics

Shakib’s move into media adds another dimension to a career that has already spanned international cricket, entrepreneurship, and political involvement. As one of Bangladesh’s most recognisable public figures, his ventures outside sport have often attracted significant attention, both domestically and abroad.

While he has previously been involved in business initiatives, this marks his first known foray into structured media ownership and content production.

Digital Media Ambition in a Competitive Space

The launch of Beyond Bangla comes at a time when digital journalism in South Asia is undergoing rapid transformation. Online platforms are increasingly competing with traditional broadcasters, offering faster news delivery, multimedia storytelling, and audience-driven engagement models.

Industry observers suggest that celebrity-led media ventures often benefit from strong initial visibility, but long-term sustainability depends on editorial independence, journalistic credibility, and consistent content quality.

Looking Ahead

Although an official launch date has not yet been announced, preparations are understood to be at an advanced stage. The platform is expected to begin operations soon, with recruitment and content planning already underway.

If successfully executed, Beyond Bangla could position itself as a notable entrant in Bangladesh’s evolving digital news ecosystem—blending celebrity influence with modern media production techniques.

For now, the project signals Shakib Al Hasan’s continued evolution beyond the cricket field, as he expands his presence into the competitive and rapidly changing world of global digital journalism.