Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Faruque Ahmed has revealed that Shakib Al Hasan is likely to sit out of the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan in Sharjah. The BCB chief indicated that it was Shakib’s decision to opt out, also noting an emotional factor due to Shakib missing what was intended to be his farewell Test in Dhaka against South Africa on October 21.
Shakib hasn’t played since the second Test in India last month. He is expected to participate in the Abu Dhabi T10 League with the Bangla Tigers, marking his return to action before Bangladesh’s Caribbean tour. Following the Afghanistan ODIs, Bangladesh will travel to the West Indies for two Tests, three ODIs, and three T20Is. Shakib, having retired from Tests and T20Is, will be available for the ODIs in the Caribbean and the Champions Trophy in February 2025. His last ODI appearance was during the 2023 World Cup in India.
Faruque confirmed that the BCB would still consider Shakib for other ODI assignments if the selectors feel his franchise cricket and independent training offer sufficient preparation. “Shakib has played for 17 years and is part of a generation accustomed to franchise cricket schedules. If the selection committee is confident he can perform, he may be considered based on his fitness and form,” Faruque noted.
The Bangladesh ODI squad for the Afghanistan series, which begins on November 6, is yet to be announced. Additionally, Faruque will meet with captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, who recently indicated he may step down from the leadership role.
Addressing Shakib’s absence from the recent Dhaka Test, Faruque disclosed that the decision was influenced by governmental directives, not the BCB. “Our sports adviser informed us about a security concern that prevented him from playing in Dhaka,” he stated, referencing reported clashes between pro- and anti-Shakib groups outside the stadium.
With Shakib likely to miss the Afghanistan ODIs, the BCB now focuses on preparing a squad for the upcoming fixtures, hoping to maintain strong performance despite the absence of one of their key players.