BCB President Faruque Ahmed has shared that Shakib Al Hasan will probably skip the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan in Sharjah, attributing Shakib's decision to opt-out partially to lingering disappointment over missing his intended farewell Test in Dhaka against South Africa on October 21.
Shakib, who hasn’t played since the second Test in India, is expected to join the Abu Dhabi T10 League with the Bangla Tigers, which will serve as preparation before Bangladesh’s Caribbean tour. After facing Afghanistan, Bangladesh will head to the West Indies for a series that includes two Tests, three ODIs, and three T20Is. Shakib, having retired from Tests and T20Is, is set to be available only for the ODI leg in the Caribbean and for the Champions Trophy in February 2025.
In a press conference on Thursday, Faruque mentioned Shakib hasn’t been actively practicing lately and “needs some time to regroup.” While a final decision is pending, it appears unlikely Shakib will play in the Afghanistan series, though he might participate in an upcoming T10 tournament. Faruque emphasized that Shakib could still contribute to Bangladesh’s ODI side, noting, “There are three ODIs against West Indies before the Champions Trophy.”
The BCB will assess Shakib’s fitness for future ODIs if selectors deem his franchise experience and training sufficient. Faruque commented on Shakib’s adaptability, saying he’s well-suited to balancing franchise commitments with national duties, thanks to years of high-intensity play. While team-based practice is preferable, Faruque affirmed the board would consider Shakib’s return based on selectors’ evaluations.
Additionally, the Bangladesh squad for the Afghanistan series, set to start November 6, is yet to be announced, as Faruque plans to meet with Najmul Hossain Shanto, who recently expressed hesitations about captaining the side.
Addressing Shakib’s absence from the Dhaka Test, Faruque clarified the BCB’s non-involvement, noting that the government had made the call, as potential security issues prevented his participation.