Bangladesh has ruled out a return to international cricket for former captain Shakib Al Hasan after his participation in a media event featuring ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Shakib joined the event by telephone from New Delhi on Wednesday. Hasina addressed journalists during the gathering, marking her first public media interaction since she left Bangladesh after the 2024 political upheaval.
Bangladesh Government Rejects Shakib Comeback
Youth and Sports Minister Aminul Haque said the government had previously taken a more flexible approach toward Shakib.That position has now changed following his appearance alongside Hasina, Haque said.
We had been looking at the matter with considerable flexibility and tolerance,Haque said in a statement. After this, I do not think there is any room to think that way anymore.
He added that Shakib no longer has an opportunity to return to cricket after appearing with Hasina.
Shakib Faces Murder Investigation
Shakib currently remains in Sri Lanka. Authorities have named him among dozens of people facing murder investigations linked to the deadly crackdown on protesters that preceded Hasina’s removal from power.
Shakib also served as a lawmaker for Hasina’s Awami League before the political crisis.
The former all-rounder has not played for Bangladesh since leaving the country. His political involvement has complicated his plans to finish his cricket career.
Bangladesh Cricket Career Under Pressure
Shakib, 39, remains one of Bangladesh’s most successful cricketers. He played more than 400 international matches and represented the country at five World Cups.
He announced his retirement plans in September 2024 after Bangladesh’s Test series against India. However, he later said he wanted to play a full series before ending his international career.The Bangladesh Cricket Board had indicated in January that Shakib could still return to the national team.
His appearance at Hasina’s event has now changed that situation.
Hasina Remains in India
Hasina has lived in India since leaving Bangladesh in August 2024. A Dhaka court convicted her in absentia in November 2025 and sentenced her to death over crimes against humanity.She has rejected the allegations against her.
The latest government statement puts Shakib’s cricket future in serious doubt. For one of Bangladesh’s biggest sporting stars, a political controversy could now bring an unexpected end to his international career.
