In a move that demonstrates his unwavering commitment towards his home nation, Bangladesh stalwart Shakib Al Hasan has made the significant choice to forego lucrative T20 league contracts around the globe in favour of his national team duties, aiming to extend his tenure in international cricket across all formats. Currently in the recovery phase from a finger injury he sustained at the World Cup, Shakib is setting his sights on a comeback through domestic cricket rather than on international T20 stages like the Indian Premier League (IPL) or the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
In preparation for the T20 World Cup scheduled for June 2024, Shakib has willingly decided to step away from these high-profile tournaments. His decision reinforces his intention to focus his energies on representing Bangladesh, irrespective of the format. At the age of 36, he remains determined to continue his cricketing journey without retiring from any format for now.
Shakib spoke candidly about his commitment, “I did not give my name in IPL and so there a window will be opened and when my manager gave my name in PSL I told him to withdraw it and my name is not there in PSL so my plan is to give all this time to national team because I will sacrifice the franchise tournament that I used to play. I am playing in three formats and hope that I can continue that but no one knows about (the) future and what is in store but till now I have the desire to play cricket for a long time,” his passion for the game clearly evident through his words referenced by ICC.
The decision comes at the cost of missing the upcoming Test series against New Zealand at home. Furthermore, Shakib will be unable to join the subsequent white-ball series tour in New Zealand. His recuperation timeline has been extended, requiring additional patience and caution.
Reflecting on his recovery, Shakib shared, “I was hoping that I will be going to New Zealand for the ODI and T20I series as now the team is departing for the tour and I was planning in that way because I felt I will be ok by four weeks. But I have consulted a doctor two days back and he asked me to wait as I will need another two weeks and later start the rehabilitation.”
Shakib’s detailed rehabilitation plan involves utilising the period that would have been occupied by T20 franchise cricket to regain full health. With a focus on being fighting fit, he aims to re-enter competitive cricket via the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).
“It is taking more time than expected as it will need six weeks and the next option is that after doing the rehabilitation and gaining fitness I don’t see any other way before BPL and there is election and so I will be busy so I will return to competitive cricket through BPL and can play from the start of BPL by getting full fitness,” he explained, mapping out his pathway back to active play.
Shakib’s conviction will likely resonate among cricket fans and particularly those who follow Bangladesh cricket with dedication. His prioritisation of the national team over personal gains speaks volumes of his loyalty and the value he places on donning the national colours.
As Bangladesh cricket continues to evolve on the world stage, the presence of a seasoned player like Shakib can provide the necessary impetus and experience required during crucial tournaments such as the upcoming World Cup. As Shakib sets an example for his teammates, his focus on national duty over personal enrichment is a testament to his character as a cricketer and his love for the game.