Shakib wants to retire after complete home series

Former Bangladesh captain and all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has clarified his retirement plans, stating that he intends to bid farewell to international cricket only after playing a full home series in all three formats.

Shakib, currently in the UAE for the ILT20, revealed on the podcast “Beard Before Wicket” that despite earlier indications, he has not officially retired from any format. His preference is to return to Bangladesh and finish his career by playing a complete home series.

“I want to retire after playing one series in each format. It might start with T20s, then ODIs and Tests—or the other way around. I’m fine with either,” Shakib said.

Following the fall of the Awami League government on August 5, the former MP from Magura-1 has not been able to return to the country and has remained away from national team duties. Still, he remains hopeful about getting his desired farewell on home soil. “I am optimistic. I think it will be possible,” he added.

Shakib explained that his participation in overseas franchise leagues is solely to maintain fitness: “I’m playing mainly to stay fit so that I can play for Bangladesh and retire properly. That’s the only reason.”