Shakib Al Hasan Retracts Retirement, Eyes All-Format Farewell Series

Former Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan has reversed his retirement decision from Test and T20I cricket, aiming to play a complete international series in all formats before bidding farewell. Shakib, embroiled in legal challenges, seeks a respectful home series exit to honor loyal fans.

Former Bangladesh cricket captain Shakib Al Hasan has retracted his retirement from Test and T20I formats, with aspirations to compete across all formats, according to ESPNcricinfo. Having been absent from international cricket for over a year, Shakib had initially retired from Tests and T20Is last year.

In a revelation on the Beard Before Wicket podcast featuring Moeen Ali, Shakib stated, "I am officially not retired from all formats. My plan is to return to Bangladesh, play a full series of ODI, Test, and T20, and then retire." Shakib emphasized his preference for concluding his career through a complete series, despite earlier plans to retire sooner.

Shakib Al Hasan has not set foot in Bangladesh since May 2024, following the fall of the Awami League government in August. Named in an FIR over an alleged murder case, he was overseas during the incident and later played Tests in Pakistan and India, with his latest match in Kanpur. When asked about a return, Shakib expressed optimism, saying, "I am hopeful. That's why I'm playing [T20 leagues]." He seeks to play a home series for a respectful farewell to fans who have consistently supported him.

(With inputs from agencies.)