Following the announcement in Mirpur on Saturday, chief selector Habibul Bashar addressed the media, where discussions ranged from squad selection and World Cup planning to the future of Shakib Al Hasan.
Shakib, widely regarded as one of Bangladesh’s greatest all-rounders, has been out of the national setup for a considerable period, leading to ongoing speculation among fans about his international future.
Speaking on the matter, Bashar revealed that he had recently been in contact with Shakib.
“I spoke to him once and asked whether he is prepared, as he is currently in an environment where regular cricket and adequate training opportunities are limited. Fitness work is possible, but consistent match practice is lacking. We discussed these aspects in detail,” he said.
However, Bashar made it clear that the door to the national team remains open for the veteran all-rounder.
He emphasized that Shakib would need to prove his readiness, particularly in terms of handling the demands of international cricket.
“International cricket demands a lot from players, so preparation is crucial. If he is ready and willing to commit for the long term, we will obviously consider him,” Bashar stated.
The BCB’s primary focus remains the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup, with team management aiming to settle a core squad within the next six to seven months. Shakib’s potential return, therefore, will depend on how he fits into these long-term plans.
“We have a clear plan regarding the World Cup,” Bashar added.
