Shakib Al Hasan has officially withdrawn his retirement from Test and T20I cricket and confirmed that he wants to represent Bangladesh in all three formats one last time before completing his international journey. The former Bangladesh captain clarified that he is “not retired from any format” and intends to return home to play a full ODI, Test, and T20I series as a farewell gesture to fans. This major development marks one of the most emotional comebacks in Bangladesh cricket, as Shakib Al Hasan prepares to end his career on his own terms and in front of home supporters.
In a recent appearance on the Beard Before Wicket podcast, which features cricketers like Moeen Ali, Shakib Al Hasan opened up for the first time about reversing his retirement. He explained that playing a complete home series before retiring is something he strongly desires, regardless of the order in which the matches are played. According to Shakib Al Hasan, the farewell series is not about his performances but about showing appreciation to the millions of fans who have supported him throughout his long and illustrious career.
Key Details About Shakib Al Hasan
- Name: Shakib Al Hasan
- Nationality: Bangladesh
- Role: All-rounder, Former Captain
- Formats: Test, ODI, T20I
- Retirement Status: Reversed; plans farewell after full home series
- Last Visit to Bangladesh: May 2024
- Legal Issue: FIR filed after political changes; not present in the country
- Bowling Suspension: Reported for illegal action in county match
- Career Runs: 4609 (Tests), 7570 (ODIs), 2551 (T20Is)
- Career Wickets: 700+ across formats
- Key Motivation: Farewell home series to thank fans
Shakib Al Hasan has been away from Bangladesh since May 2024, following a major political shift in the country and an FIR filed against him in an alleged murder case. Although Shakib Al Hasan was not present in Bangladesh during the incident, the situation prevented his return. Even during this difficult phase, he continued playing internationally, including Test matches in Pakistan and India. His last international appearance for Bangladesh came in the Kanpur Test against India.
When asked about his possible return, Shakib Al Hasan said he remained hopeful. He explained that his involvement in T20 leagues helps him stay prepared for international cricket and keeps his confidence strong regarding a return home. The all-rounder emphasized that his primary wish is to retire respectfully by playing in front of Bangladeshi fans, acknowledging their unconditional support throughout his career.
Shakib Al Hasan also addressed the issue of his temporary suspension from bowling due to an illegal action during a four-day county match for Surrey. He revealed that he bowled with an illegal action intentionally because of exhaustion after bowling over 70 overs in a match—a workload he had never experienced even in Test cricket. Shakib Al Hasan later worked with specialists in Surrey to correct his action and quickly passed the reassessment test, proving his determination to return to the field properly.
Throughout his career, Shakib Al Hasan has been a symbol of excellence and resilience. With more than 14,000 international runs and over 700 wickets combined across formats, he is widely regarded as Bangladesh’s greatest all-rounder. His potential comeback before retirement promises not only emotional value but also a boost for Bangladesh cricket at a time when stability and experience are crucial.
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Bangladesh cricket has undergone a turbulent period recently, both administratively and in terms of on-field performance. The return of Shakib Al Hasan is expected to provide leadership and direction, especially to young players who grew up watching him dominate world cricket. His farewell series, once confirmed, is anticipated to be a landmark event in the country’s cricketing history, drawing packed stadiums and global attention.
For Shakib Al Hasan, this final chapter is about gratitude rather than statistics. He stated that even if he performs poorly in the farewell series, it will not affect his decision. Instead, playing at home one last time is his way of giving back to fans who have always stood by him. His planned retirement after the home series will officially close the book on one of the most influential and talked-about careers in Asian cricket.
FAQs :
1. Why did Shakib Al Hasan reverse his retirement?
He reversed his retirement because he wants to play one final full home series across all formats before officially concluding his international career.
2. What formats does Shakib Al Hasan plan to play before retiring?
He plans to play Tests, ODIs, and T20Is in a farewell home series.
3. Why has Shakib Al Hasan been away from Bangladesh since 2024?
He has not returned due to political upheaval and an FIR filed against him, although he was outside the country when it occurred.
4. What happened with his bowling action?
His bowling action was reported during a county match, leading to a temporary suspension. He corrected the action and passed reassessment.
5. How many international matches has Shakib Al Hasan played?
He has played 71 Tests, 247 ODIs, and 129 T20Is.
6. Will Shakib Al Hasan definitely retire after the farewell series?
Yes, he stated clearly that he will retire after completing one full home series.
7. What is his main reason for wanting a farewell series?
To thank fans who have supported him throughout his career by playing in front of them one last time.