Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Faruque Ahmed hopes Shakib al Hasan will be able to play his last Test match at his home ground in Mirpur. However, Shakib’s final Test could also be against India in Kanpur if he does not participate in the upcoming series against South Africa.
This was one of the key topics discussed during a press conference held by the BCB president following a four-hour-long meeting at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Thursday (September 26).
Shakib’s Decision to Retire from Test Cricket
Faruque and other board members were already aware that Shakib had decided to retire from Test cricket after the home series against South Africa. Shakib wants to step down to give younger players more opportunities in shorter formats.
Although Shakib wishes to play his last Test match in Mirpur, Faruque explained that the BCB cannot guarantee this plan. Despite previous statements from the BCB that Shakib would have no issues returning to Bangladesh to play in the Test series against South Africa, security concerns remain a key factor.
Security Clearance Needed for Shakib
On Thursday, Shakib informed the BCB of his desire to retire from Test cricket after the series in Mirpur next month. However, this depends on whether he receives the necessary security clearance to play in the series.
“We don’t control Shakib’s security situation,” Faruque explained. “The government has to provide security, and Shakib will need to make his own decision. From our side, we cannot ensure security for any individual.“
He added, “I am not part of any security agency or the police. The government needs to decide on this. We cannot comment on security matters from the board.“
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Shakib’s Difficult Situation
Faruque acknowledged that Shakib is going through a difficult time personally. “He is dealing with personal challenges, and we have to respect his decision to retire. If he can play his last Test in Mirpur, that would be ideal, but his security has to be guaranteed by higher authorities.“
When asked if the BCB could arrange a retirement plan for Shakib, Faruque said that it wasn’t in their hands. He also mentioned that if Shakib can’t play in the South Africa series, his final Test could be in Kanpur, provided he is available.
Shakib’s Legal Troubles
Shakib had been accused in a murder case filed by Adabor police during a period of unrest in Bangladesh, although the BCB allowed him to continue playing for the national team until proven guilty. The board also assured him that he would not face any issues returning to Bangladesh to play.
Whether Shakib plays his final Test in Bangladesh or India depends on the government’s decision regarding his security. However, Faruque’s statements during the media session suggest that the BCB is preparing for a future without Shakib, possibly sooner than expected.
Shakib has struggled with both form and injury recently, which might also explain Faruque’s uncertainty about whether he will play in the Kanpur Test.
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