Shakib Al Hasan Comeback: BCB Chief Selector Gives Green Signal With Conditions

BCB Chief Selector Breaks Silence on Shakib Al Hasan's Return In a significant development reported by The Daily Star, BCB Chief Selector Habibul Bashar confirmed that the board has unanimously agreed to consider Shakib Al Hasan for future national team selection — but only under specific conditions. Speaking to reporters in Mirpur, Bashar stated: "The board has unanimously agreed that based on Shakib's availability, fitness and accessibility, and his ability to be present at match venues, we will certainly consider him for future selection." This marks a major shift in BCB's stance toward the veteran all-rounder, who has been kept out of the national setup for over two years due to a combination of political, legal, and professional issues. Fitness Remains the Biggest Hurdle for Shakib's Return While the BCB has given a green signal in principle, Chief Selector Habibul Bashar raised serious concerns about Shakib's match readiness and competitive fitness — given his prolonged absence from top-level cricket. Bashar explained: "My main question was whether he is ready. He is currently in a place where cricket isn't played regularly, so while fitness can be maintained, competitive match practice is limited." Shakib last featured in the ILT20 2025-26 (December 2025 – January 2026), where his performances were underwhelming by his own high standards: FormatMatchesBatting AverageWicketsILT20 2025-265 (batting) / 8 (bowling)28.753 Despite maintaining physical fitness, the lack of regular competitive cricket has clearly impacted his form — a concern the BCB cannot afford to overlook. Bashar, however, remained hopeful, concluding: "If everything is in order, we want him for a long period." Why Was Shakib Al Hasan Banned From the Bangladesh Team? Shakib Al Hasan's exit from the Bangladesh national setup was not a single event — it was a series of unfortunate circumstances driven by political turmoil, legal troubles, and professional setbacks. Here is a complete timeline: Political Fallout (2024) Following the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in 2024, Shakib — a former Awami League MP — faced a travel ban amid corruption investigations linked to the political upheaval. Farewell Test Controversy A planned farewell Test match against South Africa in Mirpur was ultimately blocked, denying Shakib a proper send-off on home soil. Sports Advisor's Public Statement Bangladesh's Sports Advisor Asif Mahmud publicly stated that Shakib would never be allowed to represent the country again — a statement that sent shockwaves through the cricketing world. Illegal Bowling Action Ruling During a county stint with Surrey, Shakib was also cited for an illegal bowling action, further complicating his path back to international cricket. Shakib's Retirement U-Turn: The Full Story In 2024, Shakib Al Hasan announced his retirement from both Test and T20I cricket. However, in a surprising turn of events in December 2025, he revoked his retirement decision, expressing a strong desire to play all three formats before formally hanging up his boots. This bold comeback attempt reflects the 39-year-old's burning desire for one last chapter in Bangladesh colours — but whether the BCB and the political climate will allow it remains uncertain. Can Shakib Al Hasan Still Return to Bangladesh Cricket? The road back for Shakib is complicated but not impossible. Here is what needs to fall into place: * Full fitness clearance from the BCB medical panel * Consistent competitive performance in franchise cricket * Resolution of legal and political concerns surrounding his travel * Availability to travel to match venues without restrictions * BCB board's final approval for reinstatement With youngsters already stepping up and filling the void left by Shakib, the BCB also faces the challenge of accommodating him back into a squad that has moved on significantly in his absence. What's Next for Shakib Al Hasan? As of now, no official reinstatement announcement has been made by the BCB. Shakib's dream of one final game in Bangladesh colours still hangs in the balance — dependent on fitness, politics, and the board's evolving stance. For Bangladesh cricket fans around the world, the wait continues. But for the first time in two years, there is at least a glimmer of hope that the greatest cricketer in Bangladesh's history may yet write one final chapter.