Shakib ready to return and face justice if security assured: Reuters

Former Member of Parliament, former Bangladesh cricket team captain and world-class all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has said he is prepared to return to the country and face the judicial process if the government provides security assurances.

Known to have been close to the Sheikh Hasina government, Shakib Al Hasan is currently residing abroad. In an interview with Reuters, he expressed his willingness to return and face the legal proceedings related to the cases against him. He also voiced his wish to bid farewell to cricket by playing his final international series on home soil.

Shakib, a former MP of the now-banned Awami League, has been in the United States since the student-people's uprising in August 2024. The 39-year-old cricketer, who has not yet retired from international cricket, hopes to represent Bangladesh in the 2027 ODI World Cup as well.

In the Reuters interview, Shakib stated, "If the government gives me clearance that my security will be ensured, then I will happily return. I am willing to face the court's trial and whatever needs to be done" .

During the interview, given while playing franchise cricket in Sri Lanka, Shakib denied the allegations against him, saying, "I know I haven't done anything" .

This marks Shakib's most detailed public statement on his time away from Bangladesh over the past two years. He has made it clear that he wants to return and clarify his position when he gets the opportunity. He also noted that for his return, it is "very important" that the travel ban against him is lifted and his security is ensured .