|| CF DESK ||                

Shakib Al Hasan is set to retire from Test cricket following the first Test of a two-match series against South Africa in Mirpur as the left-handed all-rounder is likely to return to Bangladesh this Thursday, a source confirmed the matter to Cricfrenzy.

Shakib left the country on July 2 for the United States to feature for the Los Angeles Knight Riders in the Major League Cricket. Since then, much has changed.

On August 5, the Sheikh Hasina government fell following anti-discrimination student protests, resulting in Shakib losing his position as a Member of Parliament. He did not return to the country after a murder case was filed against him. However, he continued to represent Bangladesh in the tours of Pakistan and India while staying abroad.

With Bangladesh to play at home against South Africa in the upcoming series of Tests, till recently, there had been a question mark over Shakib. The cricketer wanted to play but wanted an assurance of safe passage to leave the country afterward.

Despite the controversy, Asif Mahmud, advisor of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, stated that there are no obstacles to Shakib’s return. With a green light from a government representative, Shakib has begun the process of returning to Bangladesh.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh new interim coach Phil Simmons set to arrive tomorrow (16th October) after Chandika Hathurusingha’s suspension as Tiger head coach.