BCB Brings Back Shakib to Tackle Crisis

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has decided to reinstate Shakib Al Hasan in the national team’s central contract. The move has been taken to manage internal instability within the board, address international pressure, and safeguard the interest of spectators and sponsors.

The current situation has raised serious questions about the board’s stability. Recently, a director resigned following allegations related to fixing, while several others are also reportedly considering stepping down. News has emerged of heated arguments—almost turning into physical altercations—among directors during board meetings. At the same time, Bangladesh’s position in international cricket remains crucial. Series against major teams, audience interest, and sponsorship all depend heavily on team performance and overall acceptance.

In this context, the board believes that the presence of an experienced and widely recognized cricketer will help protect the brand of Bangladesh cricket and improve on-field performance.

BCB director Asif Akbar said,
“Whatever issues the government may have with Shakib, or matters related to law and courts, are for the government to handle. But from the board’s side, we want Shakib Al Hasan. When the list of centrally contracted players is prepared, we have proposed Shakib Al Hasan’s name.”

He added,
“We all know Shakib’s contribution. His importance as a brand in cricket is immense. Even in the next hundred years, we won’t get another Shakib. With respect to that legacy, the Shakib issue was raised at the BCB today.”

Shakib’s thoughts about retirement and his sense of responsibility toward the country’s cricket also influenced the board’s decision. Akbar explained,
“When the list of centrally contracted players was being prepared, a board director raised the proposal regarding Shakib Al Hasan. His position in Bangladesh and the love people have for him were also considered as part of our responsibility. I personally asked Shakib. After seeing his interest, we discussed the matter at the board.”

He further said,
“Before becoming a Member of Parliament, Shakib was a player of Bangladesh and a witness to many victories. Shakib’s name will be written in golden letters in Bangladesh’s record books. From that perspective, and to respect both him and his interest, we took this decision.”

Experts believe that Shakib’s return to the central contract is not driven solely by cricketing reasons. Rather, the board is using the presence of a superstar as a solution to counter internal fragmentation and international pressure. Shakib’s experience is also expected to play a key role in maintaining spectator interest and sponsorship.

While bringing back Shakib Al Hasan may be necessary in the current circumstances, it is essentially a strategic move to manage the board’s crisis. A superstar’s presence is being used as a solution both on the field and in terms of branding, but ensuring a lasting solution will require greater transparency and administrative stability.