Shakib Al Hasan Open to Returning to Bangladesh Amid Legal Challenges

Former Bangladesh cricket captain Shakib Al Hasan has stated his readiness to return to Bangladesh to face legal proceedings, contingent on government assurances regarding his safety. Currently in Sri Lanka for the Lanka Premier League, Shakib has been away since May 2024 due to charges related to a protest-related murder. His political ties to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have complicated his situation, leading to public backlash and attacks on his home. As he navigates these challenges, Shakib remains hopeful for a farewell series in Bangladesh before potentially concluding his international career.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 8, 2026, 08:34 IST

Shakib Al Hasan's Conditional Return to Bangladesh

Colombo [Sri Lanka], August 8: Former captain of the Bangladesh cricket team, Shakib Al Hasan, has expressed his willingness to return to his home country to confront ongoing legal matters, provided he receives guarantees regarding his safety from the government.

Currently representing the Jaffna Kings in the Lanka Premier League, Shakib has been away from Bangladesh since May 2024. He is one of 147 individuals facing charges linked to a murder incident that occurred during protests in Bangladesh last year.

In a statement to Reuters, Shakib remarked, “If the government assures me of my safety, I am ready to return and face the court proceedings. I believe I have done nothing wrong; this case is absurd.”

His return has been complicated by his political ties to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Shakib was elected as a member of parliament in the 2024 elections under Hasina's Awami League before leaving for franchise cricket.

His appearance with Hasina at a press conference drew backlash, leading to an attack on his residence in Magura.

Defending his attendance at the event, Shakib stated, “We follow the captain’s directives. I trust that they will make the right decisions, and we will adhere to their guidance.”

Bangladesh's Sports Minister Aminul Haque, who had previously shown support for expediting Shakib's legal issues, has since taken a firmer stance following the incident.

“We were initially very lenient,” Haque commented. “However, after that press conference, it appears there is no longer room for such leniency.”

He added, “Shakib has aligned himself with the regime, making it unlikely for him to return without legal proceedings.”

Shakib has previously indicated a desire to play a farewell series in Bangladesh before concluding his international career. At 39, he remains eager to continue playing but recognizes that time is not on his side.

“I feel good and am enjoying the game, but I cannot afford to wait too long,” Shakib noted.

His future in Bangladesh cricket hinges on the outcomes of the legal proceedings and the assurances he receives regarding his safety.