In a development that has sent ripples through the cricketing universe, veteran Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan announced his decision to retire from T20 Internationals (T20Is) and revealed plans to cap his illustrious Test career with a farewell match against South Africa at home. The revelation came on the eve of the second Test against India in Kanpur, on Thursday, September 26, marking a significant turning point for one of Bangladesh’s cricket icons.
**A Sudden Farewell from T20I Cricket**
Shakib confirmed that his final appearance in the shortest format of the game came during the T20 World Cup 2024 opener against Afghanistan in June. “I think I have played my last T20I match,” Shakib informed reporters. The announcement came as a shock to many fans and cricket analysts, given Shakib’s distinguished contributions to Bangladesh’s T20I campaigns over the years. His decision underscores a calculated move to gracefully exit the rigors of international T20 cricket while still hoping to make impactful contributions in other formats.
**Eyeing a Dignified Exit in Test Cricket**
The seasoned all-rounder expressed his desire to end his Test career in front of a home crowd, provided he is selected for the final match against South Africa next month. “I’ve informed the BCB about my wish to end my Test career in Mirpur, and they’ve agreed in principle. They’re working on making that possible,” Shakib elaborated. However, he left room for uncertainty, stating, “If things don’t work out, then this match against India will be my last Test.” This conditional exit plan adds an element of suspense to Shakib’s career trajectory, hinging on selections and perhaps off-the-field considerations.
**Legal Troubles and Its Implications**
Shakib’s recent announcement is intertwined with his ongoing legal tribulations. The all-rounder was named alongside 147 others in a murder case in Dhaka last month, casting a shadow over his future in international cricket. Despite these allegations, Shahriar Nafees, head of BCB’s cricket operations, has offered assurances regarding Shakib’s participation in the upcoming matches. “There is a clear message from the Bangladesh government that no one will be harassed unfairly in the cases that have been filed.
. We believe the interim government has made its position very clear on Shakib. Unless there is an injury problem or a selection-related issue, I personally don’t see any reason as of now why Shakib Al Hasan should not play in Bangladesh in the home series,” Nafees affirmed.
**A Challenging Past Few Months**
Interestingly, Shakib was actively participating in the Global T20 League when the charges were publicly revealed. Since then, his itinerary has included travel to Pakistan for a couple of Tests, followed by a stint in the UK to play a County match for Surrey. He then proceeded to India for the current two-match Test series. This hectic schedule, amid looming legal issues, underscores Shakib’s commitment and determination to keep his cricketing career on track despite external pressures.
**Mixed Performance in T20 World Cup**
Shakib’s performance at the T20 World Cup 2024 did not meet the lofty expectations of his fans and critics alike. He managed to score only 111 runs across seven innings, with a lone highlight being an unbeaten 64 against the Netherlands. His bowling statistics were similarly lackluster, securing only three wickets in six matches and remaining wicketless in four encounters. By the time Bangladesh advanced to the Super Eight stage, questions were already surfacing about Shakib’s form and his future in T20 cricket.
**Conclusion**
As Shakib Al Hasan contemplates the final stages of his storied career, the cricketing world watches with bated breath. His decision to step away from T20Is and potentially conclude his Test career with a home match against South Africa marks the end of an era for Bangladesh cricket. With his legal challenges still unresolved and fitness levels under scrutiny, the next few weeks will be critical in shaping the legacy of one of Bangladesh’s greatest cricketing talents. Fans eagerly await to see whether Shakib will get the farewell he hopes for in Mirpur or if the Kanpur Test against India will serve as his final swansong in the longest format of the game.
