Shakib Al Hasan retirement: Test Cricket Farewell Expected Against South Africa
I mean, it probably comes as no big surprise, given that the Shakib Al Hasan – the name might ring a bell he is a cricketing superstar. Thursday was also the day he informed the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) about his intention of saying goodbye to Test cricket. Yeah, you heard that right. He now has his sights set on his final Test series next month back home in Mirpur against South Africa. But there is a catch, however it all comes down to whether he will get the security clearance to play. But if that does not happen, then the five Test series against India, beginning this Friday in Kanpur, could well be his last in the traditional format.
Oh, but that’s not all. He also more or less ‘retired’ from T20Is, like, today, they said. Yes, no more Shakib magic in the shortest format of the game either.
But before the second Test against India in Kanpur, when the first ‘speak’ with the media Shakib said, “Look, it’s my wish [to retire.” After that he said, That is why I have already said it to BCB and the selectors.” He also said they are sorting out things so that he could bid farewell to the Test cricket in Bangladesh, his home country. But if that doesn’t occur then this might be the last time we will be able to see him playing test cricket.
His last T20 was during recently concluded World Cup that he participated in only sparingly due to injury. He’ll say, “I’ve told it to the board.” Today it is time for the new team members especially as we approach the 2026 T20 World Cup.
But, here’s where it gets complicated: Shakib was able to point out some risks that he felt when he considered coming back to Bangladesh. It seems the situation has ended up messy after the dismissal of the Awami League Government for which Shakib was serving as Member of Parliament. But there’s also a murder case filed against him (yes, you read that correctly). But BCB has said to him that he will be okay if they go back home to play so let’s hope it will be the case.
For the record, Shakib said: ‘I am prepared for the South Africa series, but a lot is happening back home.’ It’s not just up to me. I have already discussed with BCB regarding this series would be my last. If all remains well, my last Test will be played in Mirpur. If not, then this is it.”
He has been especially candid as to how much for him this is a challenge. “It’s been hard. I don’t know how I am surviving to focus at all, only Allah knows. There’s a case against me. It is so sad that those placing blame they have never been involved in trading before “This is bad for our country.”
years gleaned from his illustrious continuously memorable professional career representing his country internationally, Shakib seems comfortable with his decision. He has featured 70 Test matches and with his current age of 36, he believes it is time for the next generation of Bangladesh cricketers to come through. “I’m not upset. For this reason, I have felt that it is about time for me to bow out and pave way for the youthful talents he said.
Shakib also made it quite apparent his availability for the T20 series against India and West Indies would not be available and will open doors for fresh talents. He is optimistic about Bangladesh to prepare a good team for this T20 World Cup 2026.
But here is where it gets exciting—he said that if he shines in other franchise leagues in the next few months, BCB could summon him back to join T20 team. So, who knows? Perhaps this isn’t the final extreme instead.
Finally, Shakib summed up all that he said that he is satisfied with his cricketing journey and has no complaint whatsoever. “I’ve enjoyed every moment. So the time I think is ripe and probably also the time for Bangladesh cricket. Confirms board and selectors on. He said he has played these positions with an aim of perusing the team’s interest and making sure that everybody is helpful whether it is with the bat, the ball or the brain”.
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