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Dhaka: Bangladesh cricket veteran Shakib Al Hasan has said he is willing to return to his home country after nearly two years in exile, face ongoing legal proceedings, and even play a farewell international series—provided the government guarantees his safety.

Shakib, a former captain and one of Bangladesh’s most decorated cricketers, has been living in the United States since the political upheaval in August 2024 that led to the ouster of then Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. A known ally of Hasina and a former Member of Parliament from her Awami League party, Shakib has since found himself entangled in multiple legal cases back home.

Speaking from Sri Lanka, where he is currently participating in franchise cricket, Shakib stated that he has nothing to fear legally and is prepared to cooperate fully with the judicial process. However, he stressed that a formal assurance of personal security from the government is essential before he makes any decision to return.

Political turmoil and legal challenges

The cricketer’s situation reflects the broader fallout from the regime change in Bangladesh. Following the student-led uprising that resulted in Hasina’s removal, several of her associates have faced criminal investigations and legal scrutiny. Shakib is among those named in cases that include serious allegations such as involvement in the killing of a protester and corruption- charges.

The murder case, according to Shakib, pertains to an incident that allegedly took place on a day when he was playing a match in Toronto, raising questions about its credibility. He has dismissed the accusations as baseless and politically motivated.

In addition to the criminal cases, Shakib revealed that his bank accounts have been frozen for approximately one-and-a-half years as part of ongoing investigations. Despite being one of the highest tax-paying athletes in Bangladesh over the past decade, he said authorities have yet to provide clarity or resolution on the matter.

Conditional return and government stance

Shakib expressed his willingness to return immediately if the current administration, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, assures his safety. He also indicated openness to returning later alongside Sheikh Hasina, who has reportedly announced plans to re-enter Bangladesh in December despite facing a death sentence handed down in absentia.

The cricketer mentioned that he had previously attempted to engage with authorities through legal channels, writing to the ministries of home, law, and sports, as well as law enforcement agencies, seeking to have the charges dropped. However, he claimed that he received no response.

Efforts to return to Bangladesh have also faced setbacks. Shakib recounted an incident in late 2024 when he boarded a flight home after receiving verbal assurances of security, only to be asked mid-journey to turn back. He eventually landed in Dubai and returned to the United States.

A subsequent attempt to return reportedly fell through after he posted a birthday message for Hasina on social media, which authorities allegedly cited as grounds for denying his re-entry.

Commitment to cricket and retirement plans

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his return, Shakib remains active in cricket through various franchise leagues. At 39, he acknowledged that time is not on his side and that he cannot delay his retirement indefinitely.

He expressed a strong desire to play a farewell series in Bangladesh before retiring from international cricket and also hopes to represent the national team at the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup.

Shakib reiterated that he continues to enjoy the game and feels physically capable of competing at a high level. However, he emphasised that a proper conclusion to his international career, ideally in front of home fans, remains important to him.

Personal toll and family separation

Beyond professional and legal challenges, Shakib highlighted the personal difficulties he has faced during his time abroad. He has not been able to meet his parents for two years, as they remain in Bangladesh and have reportedly been unable to travel.

Living in New York with his wife and three children, the cricketer described the period as emotionally taxing but said his family has managed to cope with the circumstances.

Conclusion: A complex crossroads of sport and politics

Shakib Al Hasan’s situation underscores the complex intersection of sports, politics, and governance in Bangladesh. His potential return could serve as a significant test for the current government’s approach towards figures associated with the previous regime.

While his willingness to face trial signals confidence in his innocence, the demand for security highlights ongoing concerns about safety and political tensions. Whether he will be able to return, clear his name, and bid farewell to international cricket on home soil remains uncertain.