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Shakib Al Hasan Announces Test Retirement Amidst Uncertain Future in Bangladesh
Bangladesh’s star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has declared his intention to retire from Test cricket following the home series against South Africa next month. This decision, which has been conveyed to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), hinges on whether Shakib can secure the necessary security clearance to participate in that series. Should the clearance not come through, ShakibтАЩs final Test in Bangladesh colors might be the second and final match of the ongoing series against India, beginning in Kanpur tomorrow.
Additionally, Shakib made the surprising announcement of his immediate retirement from T20 International cricket, officially ending his T20I career.
Addressing the media ahead of the India Test, Shakib said, “I have expressed my desire to retire from Test cricket after the South Africa series to the BCB and selectors, and they have been supportive of my decision. I am hoping to play those two matches, but if for some reason I am unable to, this might be my final Test.”
Shakib Al Hasan’s Desire to Play Last Test in Bangladesh
Shakib, who has served Bangladesh cricket for more than 18 years, shared his heartfelt thoughts on the matter, emphasizing his hope to retire on home soil. He further added, “Playing that final Test match in Mirpur is important to me, but if circumstances prevent that, I will be content retiring after this Kanpur Test.”
On the topic of his T20I retirement, Shakib reflected, “I felt I had already played my last T20 match during the World Cup. This was a collective decision made with the selectors and the board, and I think itтАЩs the right time for me to step away from the format.”
Security Concerns Amidst Political Unrest
ShakibтАЩs concerns about his return to Bangladesh center around the political turbulence in the country. The veteran cricketer, who is also a Member of Parliament under the Awami League government, is dealing with the fallout of a political transition that has seen the government collapse. This unrest has created significant personal challenges for Shakib, who is facing accusations in a murder case filed by the Adabor police. Despite these legal challenges, the BCB has assured that Shakib will face no issues returning home to play for the national team.
“I am willing to play the South Africa series, but there are ongoing issues back home, and not everything is in my control,” said Shakib. “IтАЩve had discussions with the BCB about my Test cricket plans. If I can, I hope to play my last Test in Mirpur, but my priority is ensuring my safety and that of my family in Bangladesh.”
Shakib went on to comment about the allegations, saying, “This case has been an enormous weight on me, and IтАЩm just trying to focus on cricket despite everything. IтАЩve always acted in good faith and done nothing wrong. False accusations like these donтАЩt help the image of the country, and IтАЩm hopeful for a resolution soon.”
The End of a Storied Career
Shakib Al Hasan’s decision to retire from Test cricket brings an illustrious 18-year-long career to a close. Having played in 70 Test matches, his contribution to Bangladesh cricket is monumental. In addressing his retirement from both formats, Shakib acknowledged the natural progression of the game and welcomed the opportunity for younger players to step up.
“I think this is the perfect time for me to step aside and let the next generation of Bangladesh cricketers take the lead,” Shakib said. “I have already told the selectors that IтАЩve played my last T20I during the World Cup, and itтАЩs time to let the younger players shine in that format. For now, my focus is on the upcoming South Africa Test series. That will likely be my farewell to Test cricket, but if things donтАЩt work out, my retirement may come sooner.”
Future in Franchise Leagues?
As Shakib bids farewell to international cricket, he left the door open for a possible return to the T20I format if circumstances change. “If I perform well in the upcoming franchise leagues, the BCB may consider bringing me back if they think I can contribute to the T20I side. But as of now, I see myself retiring from both Test and T20 cricket after the South Africa series.”
The seasoned all-rounder concluded by expressing his satisfaction with his career: “I have no regrets. IтАЩve had an amazing career, and IтАЩve done everything I could for Bangladesh cricket. Now, itтАЩs time to pass the torch to the younger generation.”
ShakibтАЩs fans and followers will b watching closely as one of BangladeshтАЩs greatest cricketers bids farewell to the longest format of the game, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, skill, and unmatched cricketing prowess.
