Shakib Seeks Return to Bangladesh With Hasina

Former Bangladesh cricket captain Shakib Al Hasan has said he is prepared to return to Bangladesh and face all legal proceedings against him if the government guarantees his safety. The veteran all-rounder also indicated that, should an immediate return prove impossible, he would prefer to return alongside former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, referring to her as his “captain”.

Sheikh Hasina left Bangladesh for India in 2024 following the student-led mass uprising that brought an end to her administration. After remaining largely out of the public spotlight, she recently answered questions from journalists during a live virtual press conference. Shakib joined that event remotely, a decision that sparked widespread criticism and renewed public debate over his political associations.

In an interview with Reuters, the former world number one all-rounder said he was willing to end what has effectively become a two-year period outside Bangladesh, return home, defend himself against all allegations—including a murder case—and, if circumstances allow, play a farewell international series before bringing his cricket career to a close.

Shakib has previously expressed his desire to return to Bangladesh as soon as possible. Reiterating that position, he said his immediate preference is to come back without delay. However, if that cannot be arranged, he would seek to return at the same time as Sheikh Hasina, who has told Reuters that she and other Awami League leaders intend to return voluntarily to Bangladesh in December.

Explaining his stance, Shakib described the former Prime Minister as his “captain” and said, “We follow whatever our captain says. I believe they will make the right decisions, and we will follow their guidance.” His remarks have generated fresh discussion, both within sporting circles and across Bangladesh’s political landscape.

Shakib is currently in Sri Lanka, where he is participating in the Lanka Premier League. Speaking to Reuters by telephone, he said he was ready to comply fully with the country’s legal process if the authorities allowed him to return.

“If the government gives me clearance and guarantees my security, I am prepared to return to Bangladesh and face the court proceedings and everything else that is required,” he said.

The 38-year-old cricketer also maintained his innocence, stating, “I know I have done nothing wrong.” The interview marked his most detailed public comments about his prolonged stay abroad and the legal challenges surrounding his return.

Shakib’s situation reflects the broader political developments that followed Sheikh Hasina’s removal from power. A number of former ministers, senior Awami League leaders and political associates have since faced criminal cases, making their return to Bangladesh legally and politically complicated. Shakib, who also served as a Member of Parliament under the Awami League, is among those facing multiple legal cases, including a murder allegation.

Despite the legal uncertainty, the former Bangladesh captain has made clear that he wishes to return home rather than remain overseas indefinitely. Whether that becomes possible will depend on the government’s position, the security assurances he has requested and the progress of the legal proceedings against him.

His latest remarks have once again placed one of Bangladesh’s most accomplished cricketers at the centre of a debate that extends well beyond the boundary ropes, intertwining sport, politics and the country’s evolving legal landscape.