Bashar eyes long-term role for Shakib

Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Bashar addressed questions surrounding Shakib Al Hasan’s potential return, making it clear that his focus is on the all-rounder’s long-term involvement rather than the upcoming series against New Zealand national cricket team.

“There is not much time left before the New Zealand series and I am not sure how much cricket Shakib has been involved with. From what I know about him, he is not a guy who will come tomorrow and play the day after. He needs preparation too. It’s not a place of emotion. Definitely if we are thinking about Shakib, we will think in the long-term,” Bashar told the media.

“I don’t think about Shakib coming for a single series and then leaving. If we can get service from him, we will want him to provide that for a long time. In that regard, preparation is very important,” he added.

Bashar confirmed that Shakib remains part of the team’s plans and expressed hope of having him available through to the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2027.

“First things first, he is definitely in the plans. You see there are talks about him in regards to the New Zealand series which is why I want him to come prepared for a longer time. I think he still has two years.

“Many talk about retirement, for instance, we have seen talks of Mushfiqur Rahim’s retirement. I have said that the longer they play, it’s better for us. The more we can include them, it’s better for the side. And when we pick them, it’s not so that they can come and retire.

“I want him for the longer term, at least to have that plan where he can play the 2027 World Cup. So my plans are not for one series,” Bashar relayed.