Shakib Al Hasan Announces Retirement from T20 and Test Cricket
One of Bangladesh's greatest cricketing heroes, Shakib Al Hasan, has made an important decision. He stated that he will be playing his final game in the longest format—the next Test series against South Africa. To the surprise and shock of his supporters, Shakib, who has previously stepped away from T20 Internationals, has also opted to leave Test cricket.
Shakib made the news at a press conference earlier to the India Test in Kanpur when he was open about his future goals. Shakib has stated that he will play One Day Internationals (ODIs) going forward, despite his decision to stop playing Tests and Twenty20 Internationals. The 2025 Champions Trophy will probably be his final ODI appearance.
Shakib’s Final T20I and Test Matches
Shakib's T20I career has been nothing short of extraordinary. Shakib has been an important player in the T20 World Cup since its start in 2007 and stands out himself while representing Bangladesh. He actually finished the 2024 tournament as the top wicket-taker, having claimed 50 wickets. He has made a major mark on Bangladeshi cricket in the Twenty20 International format, having participated in 129 matches, scored 2551 runs, and claimed 149 wickets.
Still, attention has been drawn to his probable departure from Test cricket. In October 2024, Shakib made a hint that this would be his last Test match against South Africa. However, given Bangladesh's security concerns, especially in light of recent instability, the series is still doubtful.
Political and Security Challenges for Shakib
Shakib's decision to stop playing Test cricket is not just a personal one. Outside of cricket, he has had to overcome plenty of challenges, most notably those about Bangladesh's political instability. Shakib, an Awami League member of parliament in the past, was caught up in the political unrest in his own nation.
Shakib stepped out of Test cricket, raising concerns about his safety. He said he is willing to play in the South Africa series, but his security remains the top priority. Shakib expressed his wish to play his final Test in Mirpur, but his participation depends on the safety guarantees from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and local authorities.
Shakib’s Focus on ODI Cricket
Shakib will still play in ODIs even though his retirement from T20I and Test cricket marks the end. He indicated in a recent announcement that the 2025 Champions Trophy will most likely be his final overseas assignment. Fans will have one more chance to watch Shakib compete internationally in this competition.
The development of Bangladesh as a competitive force in world cricket has been greatly aided by Shakib's services to the ODI team. Shakib has proven to be a reliable player in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) both at bat and with the ball. Bangladesh now has a great opportunity to compete at the greatest level in the upcoming years thanks to his decision to play in the Champions Trophy.
Shakib Al Hasan’s Legacy in Bangladesh Cricket
With his retirement, Shakib ends one of the most remarkable careers in Bangladeshi cricket history. He has established himself as the best all-around player the nation has ever produced over the years. He has earned a spot among the game's greatest players thanks to his ability to contribute with the bat and the ball.
His career stats reflect this impact:
| Batting | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Innings | 128 |
| Not Outs | 8 |
| Aggregate Runs | 4600 |
| Highest Score | 217 |
| Average | 38.33 |
| Median | 25.00 |
| 50s | 31 |
| 100s | 5 |
| 200s | 1 |
| 300s | 0 |
| Ducks | 5 |
| Pairs | 0 |
| 4s | 554 |
| 6s | 30 |
| Balls Faced | 7454 |
| Scoring Rate | 61.71 |
| Opened Batting | 0 |
| Top Scored in Innings | 26 |
| % of Team Runs Scored | 13.36 |
| Bowling | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Balls Bowled | 15591 |
| Maidens | 485 |
| Runs Conceded | 7708 |
| Wickets | 242 |
| Average | 31.85 |
| 5 Wickets in Innings | 19 |
| 10 Wickets in a Match | 2 |
| Best Bowling - Innings | 7/36 |
| Best Bowling - Match | 10/124 |
| None for 100 | 3 |
| Economy Rate | 2.97 |
| Strike Rate | 64.43 |
| % of Team Wickets Taken | 25.21 |
Despite being shorter than anticipated, Shakib's Test career will be remembered. He was the driving force behind some of Bangladesh's biggest wins, including their historic victory over teams rated #1. Shakib's leadership qualities and adaptability as a player make him a crucial part of Bangladesh's cricket team.
Shakib's legacy, in my opinion, goes above his successes and stats. It has to do with his passion and dedication to the game. He demonstrated that players from lesser cricketing nations can compete with the greatest, inspiring millions of cricket fans in Bangladesh and around the globe. His contributions will live on in Bangladesh cricket history, and he will have a lasting impact on the upcoming generation of players.
Conclusion
For Bangladeshi cricket, Shakib Al Hasan's decision to retire from T20I and Test cricket means the end of an era. Fans everywhere will miss his on-field presence, as his contributions to the game have been unmatched. As he prepares for his final ODI matches, which will include the 2025 Champions Trophy, I and other cricket enthusiasts will miss every second we spend witnessing this legendary player in action. Shakib's decision to retire is also a reminder of his influence on the game and legacy.
Also Read: Fakhar Zaman Joins Desert Vipers for ILT20 2025 Season
Shakib's leadership, determination, and talent inspire future generations. His name remains tied to Bangladesh cricket’s rise in world cricket. While Shakib may be missed, cricket players and fans will continue to draw motivation from his legacy.
FAQs
When did Shakib Al Hasan retire from T20Is?
Shakib Al Hasan retired from T20 Internationals after the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Which Test match will be Shakib Al Hasan’s last?
Shakib Al Hasan plans to play his final Test match against South Africa in October 2024.
Will Shakib Al Hasan play in ODIs?
Yes, Shakib Al Hasan will continue playing ODIs until the 2025 Champions Trophy. Which he plans to be his last ODI appearance.
Why is Shakib Al Hasan’s participation in the South Africa Test series uncertain?
The series against South Africa is uncertain due to security concerns following political unrest in Bangladesh.
What is Shakib Al Hasan’s legacy in T20 cricket?
Shakib Al Hasan holds the record for the most wickets in T20 World Cup history, with 50 wickets. He has played in 129 T20Is, scoring 2551 runs and taking 149 wickets for Bangladesh.
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