After an illustrious career spanning 18 years, Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh’s cricket icon, has announced his retirement from international cricket. The former captain, widely regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders of the modern era, confirmed that March 2025 would mark the end of his international journey. However, his decision comes amid personal and political challenges, making his future appearances for Bangladesh uncertain.
A Final Farewell Planned for March 2025
Shakib Al Hasan, now 37 years old, expressed his desire to retire after Bangladesh’s scheduled home Test series against South Africa in March 2025. This series, if it takes place as planned, will be the fitting end of his Test career.
“I have spoken to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and the selectors about this,” Shakib Al Hasan said during a press conference. “They are working to organize everything so I can play these last two Test matches in Mirpur and end my Test career at home.”
However, his participation in this series remains in doubt due to Bangladesh’s ongoing political turmoil. Shakib has been embroiled in legal troubles and faces prosecution in Bangladesh over charges related to a deadly police crackdown on protesters earlier in the year. This unrest led to the toppling of the government of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, of which Shakib has been implicated as a member. As a result, he has not returned to his home country since the political upheaval began in August 2024.
Political Challenges Cast Doubt on Future Matches
The uncertainty around Shakib Al Hasan’s return to Bangladesh looms large, particularly given his current legal predicament. Shakib, along with other notable figures, faces accusations of culpability in the violent suppression of anti-government protests that took place between July and August 2024. The ongoing legal proceedings and political instability have kept him away from Bangladesh, and his future presence in the country depends on the resolution of these issues.
The South African team, scheduled to tour Bangladesh in March, is also evaluating the safety of traveling to the country. If the political situation doesn’t improve, Shakib’s farewell Test matches may never materializ