Bangladeshi Allrounder Reflects on His Decision to Retire from Tests and T20Is, with a Focus on ODIs.
Shakib Al Hasan, one of Bangladesh’s greatest cricketers, has revealed that the upcoming Test series against South Africa in October will mark the conclusion of his illustrious Test career. Speaking ahead of the Kanpur Test against India, Shakib confirmed that the 2024 T20 World Cup was his last T20 appearance for Bangladesh, signifying that his future in international cricket lies solely in One-Day Internationals (ODIs).
Shakib Al Hasan’s Final Test in Bangladesh
Shakib Al Hasan expressed that he hopes his final Test match will be in Bangladesh. Although the series against South Africa is yet to receive security clearance from Cricket South Africa, Shakib remains optimistic about playing his last Test on home soil. The delay stems from pending security inspections following the political unrest in Bangladesh during July and August, which led to hundreds of deaths. Shakib, who was a member of parliament with the Awami League-led government, has been dealing with pressure and complications since the fall of the government on August 5.
Shakib mentioned that his plans for Test cricket have already been communicated to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), and he hopes to end his Test career in Bangladesh. “I have already spoken with Faruque Ahmed, the BCB president, and the selection committee about my plans.”If possible, I would love to play my last Test in Mirpur,” Shakib said, referring to the iconic stadium in Dhaka where many of Bangladesh’s historic matches have taken place.
Personal and Political Complications in Bangladesh
Shakib Al Hasan has faced significant challenges in recent months, including political instability and legal issues in Bangladesh. While discussing his safety concerns, Shakib said, “As a Bangladeshi citizen, I should not face any problems returning to my country, but the situation is complex. My family and close friends are concerned about my security. I’m hoping things improve and a solution is found.”
The cricketer also reflected on the difficulty of focusing on the game, especially after a murder case was filed against him. “It’s been quite a tough time for me, but Allah Almighty helped me remain content throughout. There’s a case filed against me, but I prefer not to go into the details,” He said.
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Decision to Retire Not an Emotional One
Shakib Al Hasan clarified that his decision to retire from Test and T20 cricket was not made impulsively. At 37 years old, he believes now is the right time to move on and create space for younger players in the Bangladesh national team. He mentioned that the decision was carefully considered in discussions with the BCB president, Faruque Ahmed, and the selection committee, headed by Gazi Ashraf Hossain.
“I’m not upset by the decision. I believe this is the right moment for both myself and Bangladesh cricket to move forward. I’ve already informed the selectors and the board president about my intention to retire from T20Is as well. My final T20 match was during the 2024 World Cup, and I won’t be participating in the upcoming series against India and the West Indies.”
Shakib al Hasan emphasized the importance of giving new players opportunities to shine, especially with an eye on building a strong squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup. “It’s the perfect time for younger players to take center stage. I’m happy with the decision, and I have no regrets about my cricket career,” he stated confidently.
A Legacy in Test and T20 Cricket
As Shakib Al Hasan prepares to retire from two of cricket’s most prestigious formats, he leaves behind a remarkable legacy. In T20 Internationals, Shakib is the only player to have amassed over 2,500 runs and taken more than 100 wickets. At the time of his retirement, he ranks as the third-highest wicket-taker in T20 Internationals.
Shakib’s impact on Test cricket is equally significant. With 242 wickets and over 4,600 runs in his 70 Tests, he joins an elite group of cricketers that includes Jacques Kallis, Kapil Dev, Daniel Vettori, and Ian Botham all of whom have achieved the milestone of 240 wickets and 4,500 runs. Throughout his career, Shakib consistently ranked as the No. 1 all-rounder in both Test and T20 formats and even captained Bangladesh in both.
Future Plans in T20 Leagues
While his international career in Tests and T20Is is coming to a close, Shakib Al Hasan has no intention of stepping away from cricket entirely. Shakib Al Hasan confirmed that he will continue participating in T20 franchise leagues around the world, keeping his presence in the sport alive.
Shakib’s decision to focus on ODIs moving forward comes at a crucial time for Bangladesh cricket, as the team looks to build for the future. His contributions to both Test and T20 formats will be remembered as some of the most significant in the history of Bangladesh cricket.
