Bangladesh's Shakib Al Hasan Announces Shocking T20 Retirement, Final Test Imminent

Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh's celebrated all-rounder, has announced his retirement from T20 Internationals. He stated that the second Test against India might be his last if the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) doesn't organize a farewell match in Mirpur. Shakib, 37, will continue to play in franchise leagues.

In a surprising move, Bangladesh's all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan announced his immediate retirement from T20 Internationals on Thursday. He also mentioned that the upcoming second Test against India would be his last if the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) does not arrange a farewell match for him in Mirpur.

The 37-year-old cricketer, who has played 129 T20Is for Bangladesh, declared his decision on the eve of the second Test against India. 'Looking at the 2026 World Cup, this is the right time for me to move out. Hopefully, BCB will find some great players and we will perform well,' Shakib added.

Shakib has an illustrious record in cricket with 69 Tests, 4453 runs, and 242 wickets to his name. He stressed his desire to have his last Test in Mirpur, with BCB's approval. Notably, Shakib has been a member of Parliament for the Awami League and was accused in a murder case during political unrest leading to the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

(With inputs from agencies.)