Bangladesh star Shakib Al Hasan retires from T20Is, says Kanpur Test will be his last if no farewell at home.
Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh’s star all-rounder, has just announced his retirement from T20 Internationals, effective immediately.
In a surprising move, he revealed that his decision to retire from Test cricket will depend on the Bangladesh Cricket Board arranging a farewell match against South Africa at home. If that doesn’t happen, his final international appearance will be the upcoming second Test against India, scheduled to take place in Kanpur.
Shakib, who’s been an integral part of Bangladesh’s cricket team for 17 years, feels it’s time for new players to take his spot. He’s discussed this decision with the chief selector and the BCB president, and they all agree it’s the right time to move on.
Bangladeshi Cricket Legend Shakib Al Hasan Bows Out of T20 Internationals
In a surprise move, veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has announced his immediate retirement from T20 Internationals. The 37-year-old cricketer has also hinted that his Test career may soon follow, pending a farewell match against South Africa.
Shakib, a cornerstone of Bangladeshi cricket for nearly two decades, feels it’s time for younger talent to take the reins. His illustrious career boasts impressive stats across all formats.
Key Highlights:-
17-year international career
129 T20I appearances
70 Tests and 247 ODIs
2,500+ T20I runs and 150+ wickets
4,600+ Test runs and 240+ wickets
7,500+ ODI runs and 310+ wickets
Shakib has planned ODI retirement after the 2025 Champions Trophy will mark the end of an era. Despite his retirement from T20Is, the 37-year-old plans to continue competing in franchise leagues. His contributions to Bangladeshi cricket will be remembered for generations to come.
“I have played my last T20 match in T20 World Cup. We have discussed this with the selectors. Looking at the 2026 World Cup, this is the right time for me to move out. Hopefully, BCB will find some great players and we will perform well,” said Shakib on the eve of the second and final Test against India in Kanpur.
“I have expressed my desire to play my last Test in Mirpur to BCB. They agreed with me. They are trying to organise everything so that I can go to Bangladesh. If that won’t happen, the match against India in Kanpur would be my last in Test cricket,” Shakib added.
Shakib expressed his desire to conclude his Test career in front of his home fans in Mirpur against South Africa, but due to safety concerns, the upcoming match against India might be his last.
Political Unrest
Shakib’s decision is tainted by the ongoing political turmoil in Bangladesh, which led to the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. As a former member of parliament under Hasina’s Awami League party, Shakib has been named among 147 individuals accused in connection with an alleged murder during August’s protests.
This has raised concerns about his safety and potential harassment upon returning to Bangladesh. Despite these challenges,
“Going back to Bangladesh is not a problem but leaving is. My close friends and family members have concerns (about my safety), I hope things are better, well and there should be is a solution to it,” he said.
“I have 8 games to go in ODIs, and the Champions Trophy will be my last,” he said.
Amidst uncertainty and controversy surrounding his safety due to political unrest in Bangladesh, Shakib announced his retirement.
With an impressive 17-year career, Shakib leaves behind a legacy of exceptional skill and dedication. His remarkable statistics across all formats cement his status as one of Bangladesh’s greatest cricketers.
As Shakib prepares for his potential final Test appearance, fans and fellow players alike salute his contributions to the sport. His impact extends beyond the cricket field, inspiring generations to come.
The future of Bangladeshi cricket looks uncertain without Shakib, but his retirement marks a new chapter for emerging talent. As the cricket world bids farewell to this iconic player, his enduring legacy will continue to inspire and influence the sport.
