Shakib Al Hasan Opens Up on Return to Bangladesh Cricket Amid Legal Hurdles

Shakib Al Hasan shares his desire to return home, resolve legal issues, and prioritize cricket over politics amid ongoing uncertainty.

Shakib Al Hasan has expressed a strong desire to return to Bangladesh after spending nearly two years away from the country following political upheaval in August 2024. Currently residing in New York with his family, the veteran all-rounder remains entangled in legal complications that have delayed his comeback.

Despite the uncertainty, Shakib remains optimistic about resolving the situation soon. In a candid interview, he opened up about missing his homeland, navigating legal processes, and his future in cricket and politics.

While discussions continue between authorities and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), Shakib is personally working to clear the hurdles that stand in his way. His focus, however, remains firmly on returning home and getting back to normalcy.

Shakib admitted that ongoing legal proceedings are the primary reason behind his prolonged absence from Bangladesh. He emphasized that resolving these matters is his top priority before considering any return to international cricket.

“Naturally, when someone is unable to go to his own country, he is bound to miss it. I am no exception; I miss the country immensely. I hope to return soon, and it will certainly feel great when that happens,” Shakib told The Daily Star.

He added that while communication with the BCB happens occasionally, he has largely been managing the situation independently.

“I am hopeful; I have always been an optimistic person. The legal processes have begun. If I can resolve things as quickly as possible… otherwise, it might take time. But I am trying my best to settle these issues quickly. The faster these matters are resolved, the sooner I can return.”

Cricket First, Politics Later

Shakib made it clear that his immediate focus remains cricket, even as questions continue to arise about his political future. The former Member of Parliament stressed that while politics remains an option, his playing career has limited time left.

“That is secondary. My first priority is returning to the country. I have seen in interviews and comments from the BCB and others that they want me to come and play. But since a legal process is ongoing, these things cannot just be said verbally; the issues must be resolved for me to return. Since I am far away, it would have been easier for me if the BCB had handled these matters on my behalf. I am not saying they haven’t done anything at all, but if it had been done a bit better, there would have been a possibility of a quicker solution. Since that didn’t happen and I am being delayed, I am doing my level best to find a solution.“

He also reflected on his continued passion for the game despite being away from international cricket.

“My interest in the game is still as it always has been. The day I see that the interest is no longer there, I will step away.”

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Concerns Over Bangladesh Cricket and Player Welfare

Shakib also shared his views on the current challenges within Bangladesh cricket, including administrative instability and the suspension of domestic competitions like the Dhaka Premier League (DPL). He believes players are bearing the brunt of these issues.

“One thing I understand is that the only victims here are the players; no one else is suffering. I don’t think anyone has the desire to understand the players’ pain. Everything combined has created a chaotic mess. Only the players are suffering in this.”

Despite the turmoil, Shakib remains hopeful about the future of Bangladesh, both politically and in cricket. He called for unity and fairness in resolving ongoing issues.

“Situations don’t remain the same forever; they change. I hope a normal situation will return in the future where all parties will get equal opportunities and the people will decide who they want.”

As he continues to navigate legal complexities, Shakib’s focus remains clear, return home, resume cricket, and then consider the next chapter of his journey.