Shakib Al Hasan has said he is ready to return to Bangladesh and face murder charges if the government can guarantee his safety. He also made it clear that he has not given up on his dream of playing for Bangladesh in the 2027 ODI World Cup.
The former Bangladesh captain was a lawmaker for Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League. He has been living abroad since Hasina’s government was removed from power in August 2024. Shakib has not retired from international cricket and still hopes to make a return to the national team.
However, a serious investigation into alleged murder cases linked to the deadly crackdown on student protests stands in the way of his return.
“If the government guarantees my security, I’m happy to go back, stand trial, do whatever I must,” Shakib told Reuters.
The 39-year-old also said that he had done nothing wrong.
“I know I haven’t done anything,” he said.
Hasina fled to India and was later sentenced to death in absentia by Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal over the crackdown.
Shakib has tried to return to Bangladesh before, but those plans did not work out. In late 2024, he was on his way home after receiving assurances about his safety. However, during the journey, he was told to turn back. He eventually returned to the United States.
“I have no idea what changed in just 12 hours,” Shakib said. He also revealed that he had spent almost two months making arrangements for the trip.
There have also been calls for Shakib to distance himself from Hasina and the Awami League, but he said he was not willing to do that.
“I won’t even consider it,” he said.
The all-rounder continues to play franchise cricket and believes he still has a lot to offer. However, he admitted that he does not have much time left if he wants to achieve his goal of playing in the 2027 World Cup.
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“I’m playing most of the franchise leagues. I feel great, still enjoy the game, and I’m playing well. But, honestly, I can’t wait too long,” he said.
His comments came after Bangladesh Youth and Sports Minister Aminul Haque said that the door was closed on Shakib’s return to international cricket. The decision followed Shakib’s virtual appearance at an event in New Delhi where Hasina spoke to the media for the first time in two years.