The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) clarified on Sunday that they do not believe all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan’s ODI career is over, despite recent speculation about his future in the format.  

The statement followed comments from sports adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain, who suggested that the BCB would deliberate on Shakib’s cricketing future.

Shakib, who has already retired from T20Is, is unlikely to return to Test cricket after being barred from playing his last Test at home against South Africa due to political and legal issues.  

Many feel that Shakib still has so much to offer in the ODI format, particularly for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in 2025, which will be played outside Bangladesh.  

Shakib has not returned to Bangladesh recently, reportedly on the advice of sports adviser Asif Mahmud. The government allegedly wanted to avoid any disruptions tied to Shakib’s political identity as a lawmaker from the Awami League, which stepped down amid student protests.

Complicating matters, Shakib has been implicated in a murder case, raising further questions about his availability.  

“I don’t think his ODI career is over, especially after what the Sports Adviser said about him and his cricket,” a senior BCB official told Daily Sun on condition of anonymity.

“The board will have to make a decision on his inclusion in ODIs, but we have not ruled out the possibility of his return entirely.”  

BCB President Faruque Ahmed recently announced that Shakib opted out of the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan in Sharjah. This decision coincided with lingering disappointment over Shakib missing what was expected to be his farewell Test in Dhaka against South Africa in October.  

Faruque added that Shakib aims to assess his fitness and form during the Abu Dhabi T10 tournament, scheduled from November 21 to December 2, where he will play for the Bangla Tigers. The all-rounder is reportedly undergoing extensive training to prepare for the competition.  

“We are waiting to see what Shakib wants regarding his future with the national team. If he expresses willingness and there are no issues from the board, I see no reason why he won’t be picked for ODIs,” a selection panel member stated.  

BCB sources indicated that Shakib’s selection for the ODI series against the West Indies would be crucial.

“If he is not included in the West Indies ODIs, it may suggest that the board is not considering him for the Champions Trophy 2025,” a source revealed.  

As fans and cricket experts speculate on Shakib’s future, the BCB’s decisions in the coming months will determine whether one of Bangladesh’s most iconic players continues to represent the country in ODIs.