BCB targeting Shakib Al Hasan's return for Pakistan ODI series in March

Note: This English version was translated on September 4, 2026 as part of Cricraze's bilingual archive initiative.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is set to take concrete steps toward resolving the long-standing uncertainty surrounding Shakib Al Hasan's return to the country. The board plans to reintegrate the star all-rounder into the national side during the upcoming home ODI series against Pakistan in March.

Confirming the development, BCB director Asif Akbar stated that Board President Aminul Islam has engaged with high-level government officials to clear Shakib's legal hurdles and facilitate a safe environment for his return. "The board president is in talks with the relevant government authorities about this," Asif said. "We are optimistic that Shakib will be seen back in national colours during the home series against Pakistan in March."

Shakib, a former Member of Parliament, has not returned to Bangladesh since the fall of the government on August 5, 2024. Amid a murder case and fear of arrest, his wish to play his farewell Test against South Africa at home last year went unfulfilled. However, with shifts in the political landscape and changes within the interim government setup, the BCB believes the pathway for Shakib's return is now smoother than before.

A BCB director revealed that Shakib himself is keen on returning home and reached out to the board about a month ago to express his intent. Currently residing in New York, Shakib is awaiting a formal green light from the government.

Pakistan's tour of Bangladesh will be split into two phases: a three-match ODI series in March, followed by a Test series in May after the PSL. The BCB wants Shakib back on the field starting with the ODIs. Although time is tight ahead of the national elections scheduled for February 12, board officials remain confident that facilitating Shakib's return through legal channels is entirely feasible.