Path clears for Shakib’s return as steps taken to resolve legal complications

Sports Desk
A long-awaited ‘homecoming’ may soon be in sight in Bangladesh cricket, as star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan appears to be preparing to return to the country after nearly a year and a half abroad. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Tuesday submitted documents related to Shakib’s legal case to the government, in what is seen as a final step in clearing the way for his possible comeback.

Former Bangladesh Awami League MP Shakib has not returned to the country since the fall of the government in August 2024. His last appearance in the national team jersey was in a Test match against India in Kanpur later that year. Since then, the 38-year-old cricketer has focused on various franchise leagues around the world and has stayed away from the national team.

Although Shakib wanted to return home, he was unable to do so due to strong opposition from Yunus’ interim government. He was accused in multiple cases, including murder, for his involvement in Awami League politics.

There have been rumours of Shakib being brought back to the country since the BNP came to power. A few days ago, State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque had said that the government would take steps to resolve the legal cases pending against Shakib and former captain Mashrafe Mortaza (who was also an Awami League MP) so that the two senior players can resume their cricket careers. Aminul mentioned that these cases need to be resolved ‘at the state level’ to allow them to return to the sport.

Shakib’s legal team then prepared the necessary documents and submitted them to the BCB. Officials said that many of the allegations were made primarily to harass him. The move is crucial in securing Shakib’s last chance to play for Bangladesh. However, batting coach Mohammad Ashraful believes that Shakib can also play in the 2027 World Cup to be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.