Shakib Al Hasan Eyeing National Return Subject to Fitness and Availability Conditions
Speaking to the media on Saturday, April 11, 2026, Bashar revealed that he has maintained regular contact with the veteran all-rounder to discuss his potential comeback to the national side. While Shakib was notably absent from the recent series against Pakistan and has not been included in the upcoming squad for the New Zealand series, the selection panel has indicated that the door remains open for the "poster boy" of Bangladesh cricket, provided specific performance and preparation criteria are met.
Habibul Bashar emphasized that the selection committee harbors no reservations about reintegrating a player of Shakib's caliber and experience into the squad. However, the primary focus remains on his match fitness and his ability to commit to the national team over a sustained period. The Chief Selector noted that international cricket demands a high level of technical skill and physical conditioning, and he has been inquiring about the training facilities available to Shakib at his current location. The goal is to ensure that if Shakib returns, he does so at a level that adds immediate value to the team’s competitive edge across all formats.
Shakib has been away from the national team since late 2024, a period marked by significant personal and professional challenges. His absence was compounded by legal complexities and political developments in Bangladesh, alongside a stint in various franchise leagues where his participation remained inconsistent. These factors raised concerns regarding his overall match sharpness and readiness for the rigors of five-day or high-intensity limited-overs cricket. The Chief Selector's conditional "green light" serves as a formal roadmap for the all-rounder, shifting the responsibility onto Shakib to demonstrate his readiness through rigorous training and domestic or franchise-level performances.
The news has sparked a wave of optimism among cricket fans in Bangladesh, many of whom view Shakib as an indispensable asset for the team's future campaigns. As the national side prepares for a busy international calendar, the possibility of having their most successful all-rounder back in the fold could provide a much-needed psychological and tactical boost. For now, the cricketing fraternity awaits Shakib’s next move, as his return to the international arena hinges entirely on his ability to meet the high standards set by the BCB selectors and his own desire to wear the national colors once again.
