Shakib al Hasan, one of Bangladesh's most celebrated cricketers, is likely nearing the end of his Test cricket career. Join Bet Pro Exchange for excellent cricket news.
His possible final Test match might occur against India in Kanpur, assuming he doesn't play in the upcoming series against South Africa.
This topic took center stage during the press conference Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Faruque Ahmed held following a four-hour board meeting at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Thursday, September 26.
Discussions regarding Shakib's potential retirement from Test cricket have been ongoing.
According to Faruque and other board members, Shakib intends to retire after the home series against South Africa. Follow Bet Pro Exchange for the notable cricket updates.
His decision seems motivated by a desire to create space for younger players, especially in shorter game formats where Bangladesh is focused on developing future talent.
However, Shakib's wish to play his last Test match on home soil in Mirpur remains uncertain.
While the BCB had previously suggested that he would face no issues returning to Bangladesh for the South Africa series, the situation has changed.
Faruque explained that although the board respects Shakib's desire, they cannot guarantee him a farewell match in Mirpur due to certain external factors, including concerns over his security.
Shakib has informed the BCB of his wish to retire after the South Africa series, but his participation in that series hinges on receiving security clearance from the government.
Shakib's security concerns are particularly significant given his past political unrest and legal troubles. Betpro exchange login for cricket news.
He was previously named in a murder case by the Adabor police station during a period of national instability.
Despite this, the BCB allowed him to continue playing for the national team while the case was unresolved and assured him there would be no issues if he returned to play in Bangladesh.
During the press conference, Faruque clarified that the BCB is not in a position to guarantee Shakib's security and that the responsibility lies with the government to provide the necessary clearance. "We don't have [Shakib's security] in our hands.
The security needs to come from the government, and he must decide. We cannot comment on his security," Faruque said.
He emphasized that the board is not equipped to handle security matters and that any assurance must come from higher government authorities.
Despite the uncertainty, Shakib and the BCB are eager to ensure he gets a proper farewell if possible.
Faruque acknowledged that Shakib is going through a difficult period personally, which could have influenced his decision to retire now. Betpro exchange login for daily cricket news.
"Like him, I too believe if he can play his last Test in Mirpur, it would be the ideal scenario, but his security concerns need to be addressed by the authorities," Faruque added.
Shakib's recent struggles with form and injuries have also contributed to the discussions surrounding his retirement.
Faruque hinted that if these issues persist, Shakib might not even feature in the Kanpur Test, leaving the possibility of his final Test appearance up in the air.
Whether Shakib's final Test is in India or Bangladesh remains to be seen, but it is clear that the BCB is preparing for life after one of its greatest players.
Shakib's absence will undoubtedly create a void, but it also presents an opportunity for the next generation of Bangladeshi cricketers to step up.
The decision now depends on Shakib's security clearance and his fitness to play, with the BCB signaling that they are ready to move forward, with or without him.
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