Shakib Al Hasan has announced that the Dhaka Test against South Africa in October will be his last. He revealed this before the Kanpur Test against India. Shakib also confirmed that the 2024 T20 World Cup, held in June, was his final T20I for Bangladesh. Going forward, his focus will solely be on ODI cricket.
The South Africa series is still tentative, awaiting security clearance after recent inspections. The unrest in Bangladesh earlier this year, which led to several deaths, complicates the situation. Shakib, a former member of parliament, has also been impacted by the political turbulence following the fall of the Awami League-led government in August. He expressed concerns about his safety if he returns to Bangladesh but remains hopeful the situation will improve.
Shakib shared that his decision to retire from Tests and T20Is wasn’t emotional, but well-considered. He discussed the move with BCB president Faruque Ahmed and the selection committee, stating that, at 37, it is the right time to step aside and allow younger players to take over. Shakib emphasized that he has no regrets and is happy with his career.
Shakib leaves a strong legacy. He is the only cricketer to score over 2,500 runs and take more than 100 wickets in T20Is. In Test cricket, he has 242 wickets and 4,600 runs, placing him among legends like Jacques Kallis and Kapil Dev. Though retiring from international T20s and Tests, Shakib will continue to play in T20 franchise leagues.
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