BCB Targets March Return for Shakib Al Hasan in Pakistan Series
The board is optimistic that the current Law and Sports Adviser, Professor Asif Nazrul, will be more receptive to resolving the legal complications.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is actively planning to bring Shakib Al Hasan back to the national fold, targeting the home ODI series against Pakistan in March as his potential return.
Despite previous failed attempts to facilitate his comeback under the tenure of former board president Faruque Ahmed, the current board, led by Aminul Islam, has publicly declared its intention to consider the veteran all-rounder for selection. BCB Director Asif Akbar confirmed that discussions with the government have already commenced to clear the hurdles preventing Shakib's return.
"Our board president is in contact with the appropriate government authorities regarding this matter," Asif told Prothom Alo, a Bangla newspaper. "We are hopeful that we will see Shakib in the national team again during the home series against Pakistan in March."
Shakib, a former Member of Parliament for the ousted Awami League government, has been unable to return to Bangladesh since the mass uprising on August 5, 2024. He faces multiple legal cases, including murder charges, which forced him to miss his planned farewell Test against South Africa in Mirpur last year due to threats of arrest and public anger.
However, the political landscape has shifted. With former sports adviser Asif Mahmud—who publicly opposed Shakib's return—no longer in the government, the BCB believes the path is now clearer. The board is optimistic that the current Law and Sports Adviser, Professor Asif Nazrul, will be more receptive to resolving the legal complications.
"We want Shakib to play for the country again, starting from this Pakistan series," Asif Akbar added. "Let the opportunity for his return be created first. Whether he continues to play after that is his decision."
Shakib, currently in New York, has reportedly expressed strong interest in returning. While he has not issued a formal statement, sources indicate he is eyeing the Pakistan series as his comeback vehicle. The series is scheduled for March, before Pakistan returns in May for two Tests following the PSL.
With national elections slated for February 12, questions remain about whether the interim government can expedite the process. However, board officials remain confident, suggesting that the post-election scenario might even make the task easier.