Shakib to Return Fully Fit, Says National Trainer

The Bangladesh national team’s trainer has expressed strong confidence that star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan will return to international cricket in full fitness, dismissing concerns over his physical condition despite his extended absence from the country.

Shakib, one of Bangladesh’s most prominent sporting figures, has been at the centre of ongoing discussions within the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) regarding his potential return to national duty. While no formal timeline has been confirmed for his availability, team officials continue to monitor developments closely.

Speaking on Wednesday at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, where the national conditioning camp is currently underway, national team trainer Iftikhar Ifti provided an optimistic assessment of the veteran cricketer’s fitness status.

He noted that Shakib, as an international-level athlete, maintains a professional fitness regime even while abroad. According to him, the cricketer works consistently with his personal fitness trainer, physiotherapist, and nutrition specialists, ensuring that his conditioning is sustained at a high standard.

“He is an international star,” Ifti said. “Even while staying outside the country, he maintains his fitness. From what I can see, he has access to his own trainer, physio, and nutrition support. I do not believe he is lacking training facilities. In fact, he is probably being monitored more closely than what we could do here.”

The trainer further clarified that the BCB currently does not possess detailed or up-to-date fitness data regarding Shakib. However, based on available observations and his professional background, there is confidence that the cricketer will be fully match-ready upon his return.

Fitness and Monitoring Overview

Ifti also emphasised that no definitive decision has yet been made regarding when Shakib will be available for national selection. He described the matter as one of broader national importance, requiring coordination at board level rather than individual planning.

“His situation is a national matter,” he said. “We have not yet developed any fixed plan regarding when he will return or what he will do. When he comes back and when the BCB considers him ready, we will then prepare a proper plan involving him.”

The trainer’s comments come at a time when the BCB is reviewing squad structure and long-term planning for upcoming international fixtures, with particular attention on senior players and their workload management.

Beyond Shakib’s situation, Ifti also addressed broader concerns about player fitness within the national setup. Responding to criticism that Bangladeshi cricketers are sometimes perceived as lacking discipline in fitness, he rejected such claims and pointed to noticeable improvements in recent years.

“Many people say our players are not responsible or not fit enough,” he said. “But the reality is different. They are now far more aware. They remain in constant contact with trainers like us and with physiotherapists. These positive changes are clearly visible in their attitude and routines.”

He added that modern training methods, increased communication with support staff, and greater awareness of professional standards have significantly improved the overall fitness culture within Bangladesh cricket.

As discussions continue regarding Shakib’s return, the national camp remains focused on conditioning and preparation, with officials maintaining that any future inclusion will depend on fitness confirmation and team requirements at the appropriate time.