Shakib hopeful of returning to Bangladesh by year end

Shakib Al Hasan, who has been living outside Bangladesh since August 2024, has expressed optimism about returning to the country by the end of this year.

In an interview with Sportstar in Mumbai on Wednesday, April 29, the veteran all-rounder said, "The situation in Bangladesh can change all of a sudden. You never know what happens tomorrow, so that's why I'm still hopeful".

"I remain optimistic that I'll return to Bangladesh by the end of the year. One thing is certain, I must return to Bangladesh," he said.

Regarding his potential comeback to the national team, Shakib admitted that the matter is not entirely in his hands. "I don't think it's in my control. But I'm trying to find a solution," he said.

Physical fitness, however, is not a concern for the 39-year-old. "I am still physically fit and believe that I still have a lot to give," he said, adding that it might take him about a month to be fully match-ready.

On the subject of retirement, Shakib made it clear that he does not want to leave the game with just a farewell match. "I don't want to be in a position where I become a burden on the team just for the courtesy of a farewell match," he said.

Shakib has been staying in New York, USA, with his family since the political change in Bangladesh in August 2024 . He has been away from the Bangladesh team for nearly two years, last playing a Test for the country against India in Kanpur in 2024.