Shakib Al Hasan Announces International Retirement from Cricket

In a significant development for cricket fans around the world, Bangladesh's former captain Shakib Al Hasan has announced his intention to retire from international cricket by March next year. This decision comes amidst a backdrop of serious legal challenges he is facing in his home country, where he is under prosecution related to his connections with the former government led by Sheikh Hasina. The 37-year-old cricketer has not returned to Bangladesh since the recent political upheaval, which saw Hasina's government being overthrown in a student-led revolution.

Shakib has made it clear that he plans to play his final international matches during the upcoming Champions Trophy, which is set to take place in Pakistan in February. He expressed a strong desire to return to Bangladesh for a two-match Test series against South Africa, stating, "It’s my desire, I have said this to BCB and the selectors." He has communicated with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) about his wish to participate in these matches, emphasizing the importance of concluding his Test career on home soil.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the South Africa tour, which is still under review due to safety concerns following the recent political events, Shakib remains hopeful. He has already announced his retirement from T20 cricket after the World Cup held in June, indicating that he feels it is the right time to step back and allow new talent to emerge in the Bangladesh cricket scene.

Shakib's contributions to Bangladesh cricket have been monumental. He has played a pivotal role in elevating the team to become serious contenders on the international stage. His remarkable achievements include being the only player to have topped the International Cricket Council all-rounder rankings in all three formats of the game simultaneously. Over his illustrious career, Shakib has represented Bangladesh in 70 Tests, 247 One Day Internationals (ODIs), and 129 T20 matches since making his international debut in 2006.

As Shakib prepares to bid farewell to international cricket, fans and cricket enthusiasts alike reflect on his journey filled with both triumphs and controversies. His legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of cricketers in Bangladesh and beyond. While the cricketing world will miss his dynamic presence on the field, Shakib's decision to retire marks the end of an era for Bangladesh cricket, leaving behind a rich history of performances that will be remembered for years to come.