Shakib Al Hasan, the Bangladesh all-rounder, has made a stunning U-turn and wants to play all three formats one last time before hanging up his boots. This comes after Shakib Al Hasan reversed his retirement from Test and T20I formats, following a year-long absence from international cricket.
Shakib shared this plan openly on the Beard Before Wicket podcast with Moeen Ali. He said he is not officially retired from any format yet. His exact words were that he plans to go back to Bangladesh and play one full series of ODI, Test, and T20 before retiring. Fans are thrilled with this Shakib Al Hasan reverse retirement update because it means a proper farewell at home.
Why Shakib Al Hasan Wants to Play All Three Formats Again
Shakib Al Hasan’s reverse retirement makes so much sense for him. First, he loves playing in front of his home crowd in Bangladesh. In May 2024, Shakib had not visited his home since the government led by the Awami League collapsed due to political reasons. He was a Member of Parliament for that party, and things got tough with protests and safety concerns. Now, he hopes security clearance will let him come back for this final series.
Shakib wants to play a complete bilateral series covering T20I, ODI, and Test. It does not matter if it starts with T20 or Test, he just wants to finish strong across all formats. This way, he can retire from all three formats in one go. Bangladesh fans deserve to see their hero Shakib Al Hasan reverse retirement and play all three formats live. His reason is simple: give a proper goodbye after giving so much to Bangladesh cricket.
Another big reason is his fitness and form. At 38, Shakib keeps himself sharp by playing T20 leagues worldwide. He believes he can still contribute with bat, ball, and fielding. This Shakib Al Hasan wants to play all three formats, dream shows his passion. He even said he is hopeful it will happen soon.
Challenges in Shakib Al Hasan’s Comeback to the Bangladesh Team
His political connections with the Awami League have cost him lawsuits and travel bans. In June 2025, the anti-corruption body imposed a travel ban on him on corruption allegations in a Dhaka court. Besides, the Bangladesh Cricket Board has indicated that they are unable to assure his inclusion and security at present.
Shakib last played a Test in India in October 2024. He announced T20I retirement then and wanted a farewell Test against South Africa at home. But the interim government could not assure security. Now with this reverse retirement news, everyone waits for clearance. Bangladesh played a recent series without him, winning Tests against Ireland under Najmul Shanto. Still, Shakib Al Hasan’s reverse retirement from Test and T20I could boost the team.
Selectors have an official stance that Shakib will not be picked right now. But his skills are unmatched: over 7000 Test runs, 300 wickets, same in ODIs. Why not let him play one series? This is the real question for BCB.
Analysis of Shakib Al Hasan’s Reverse Retirement Impact
Shakib Al Hasan’s reverse retirement latest news is great for Bangladesh cricket. He brings experience no young player has. In Tests, his all-round skills can turn matches. For ODIs and T20S, his spin and middle-order batting are gold. Imagine him mentoring guys like Mehidy Hasan in a home series.
But risks exist too. At 38, can he handle all three formats back-to-back? He admitted to chucking intentionally in a County game for Surrey due to fatigue after bowling 70 overs. That led to the ECB ban. Still, he owns it and says the umpires followed the rules. This shows maturity.
For fans, Shakib Al Hasan wants to play all three formats is emotional. He fled after Hasina went to India, and stayed abroad playing leagues. Now, reverse retirement gives closure. If it happens, expect packed stadiums in Mirpur. Bangladesh needs heroes like him to rebuild after unrest.
Long-term, this sets an example for players in politics. Shakib stayed loyal but now focuses on cricket. BCB must clear hurdles fast.
What Next for Shakib Al Hasan All Formats Farewell Series
Shakib Al Hasan’s reverse retirement plan needs BCB nod and security okay. He wants a full home series, maybe against a strong team. This will be his swansong in T20I, ODI, and Test. Fans in India follow closely as we love the Bangladesh rivalry
