The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has indicated that Shakib Al Hasan could return to the national team in the near future. BCB board director Iftekhar Rahman stated that the door remains open for Shakib’s comeback, especially as the team seeks to improve its recent performance.
When asked about Shakib’s potential return amid Bangladesh’s current struggles, Iftekhar Rahman emphasized that Shakib remains an important player for Bangladesh. “Shakib will always be considered by the selectors and team management,” he said.
“He is a world-class cricketer and a valuable asset. Although he has only recently returned after working on his bowling action, we are monitoring his progress. It’s not the end of our association with him. We need to see him play more matches before making a final decision.”
Shakib, 38, returned to competitive cricket after nearly six months when he played three games for Lahore Qalandars in PSL 2025 last week. This came after his bowling action was cleared by the ECB in December last year, following concerns raised during his time with Surrey.
His last appearance for Bangladesh was in October 2023 during the second Test against India in Kanpur. Before that, he had announced his intention to retire from T20Is after the match against South Africa, but political unrest prevented his final appearance.
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Shakib has not been seen in Bangladesh since last year due to political issues, as he is also a member of parliament for the Awami League, which was ousted from power in August. The BCB did not call him up for recent series, including the Champions Trophy, and he was left out of the team altogether.
Meanwhile, his bowling action was scrutinized by the ECB, though it was eventually cleared. His recent performances in PSL were modest, with two ducks and just one wicket in three matches.
With BCB facing challenges in rebuilding their team—especially after veteran players like Tamim Iqbal and Mahmudullah retired—Shakib’s return could provide a much-needed boost. Currently, Bangladesh’s ODI team ranks has slipped to No. 10 in ICC rankings, highlighting the need for experienced players.
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Iftekhar Rahman added, “Our team is relatively new without some of our senior players. There’s a gap, but we believe in the talent of our current players. The more they play, the better they will become. Right now, the only way is up for Bangladesh cricket.”
Overall, the BCB seems open to Shakib’s comeback, and cricket fans eagerly await whether he will soon be back in Bangladesh colors.
