Bangladesh ex-captain Shakib Al Hasan has announced his retirement from international cricket, with his last match set to be at next year’s Champion’s Trophy in Pakistan. The 37-year-old is currently facing prosecution in Bangladesh for his relationship with the country’s former leader and murder charges, along with several other members of the ex-premier Sheikh Hasina’s party. Shakib has not returned to Bangladesh since the toppling of Hasina’s government after a student-led revolution last month.
Despite his legal troubles at home, Shakib expressed his desire to return to Bangladesh for a slated two-Test series against South Africa. He has asked the Bangladesh Cricket Board for permission to play those matches in Mirpur and finish his Test career there. Shakib stated that if this does not happen, then his last match will be at the Champion’s Trophy. The Proteas are currently assessing the situation in Bangladesh to determine if the upcoming tour, scheduled to start on October 21, can proceed safely.
Shakib has already retired from T20 cricket following the World Cup in June and plans to play his final 50-over matches at the Champion’s Trophy in February. He played a key role in Bangladesh’s historic Test series sweep in Pakistan and has represented the country in 70 Tests, 247 ODIs, and 129 T20 matches since his debut in 2006. As the only player to have topped the International Cricket Council all-rounder rankings in all three formats simultaneously, Shakib has been a driving force in Bangladesh’s rise as serious international contenders.
The veteran player has discussed his retirement plans with selectors and the board and believes that now is the right time for him to move on from the game. Shakib’s decision to retire will open up opportunities for new players to make their mark in the Bangladesh team. Despite the controversies and scandals that have surrounded his career, Shakib’s contributions to Bangladeshi cricket have been undeniable, and he will be remembered as one of the country’s greatest players. Fans will be eagerly awaiting his final matches in international cricket and the opportunity to bid farewell to their beloved cricketing hero.
