Shakib Al Hasan Couldn’t Play for Bangladesh Due to Sports Adviser’s ‘No’

Once again, social media has erupted around Bangladesh cricket’s greatest all-rounder, Shakib Al Hasan. The heated Asia Cup final between India and Pakistan had barely cooled down when, on Monday (September 28), the spotlight shifted to a new controversy: Shakib versus Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan.

From the beginning of his career, Shakib was unmatched on the field. But midway through his playing days, he ventured into politics—a move many fans and supporters had long described as the biggest mistake of his career. Concerns that politics would disrupt his cricket soon became a reality.

Last October, Shakib wanted to bid farewell in a home Test against South Africa. He was even included in the squad for that match. But ultimately, he couldn’t return to the country. That denied him the chance to play a farewell game in front of his fans wearing the Bangladesh jersey—a regret he still carries.

On Monday, Shakib wished former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina a happy birthday on his verified Facebook page. Shortly after, Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud wrote:

"Thousands cursed me for not rehabilitating one individual. But I was right. This is the end of the discussion."

This triggered widespread speculation in cricket circles. In response, Shakib posted:

"Well, at least someone finally admitted that because of him, I couldn’t wear the Bangladesh jersey again, couldn’t play for Bangladesh! Maybe one day I’ll return to my motherland—I love Bangladesh."

Shakib last played for Bangladesh against India in October of last year. Since then, he hasn’t featured for the national team, though he remains active in T20 leagues worldwide, most recently participating in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

Shakib Al Hasan’s contribution to Bangladesh cricket is undeniable. But due to politics and the sports adviser’s ‘no,’ his farewell in the national jersey never came true. The question now is: will this legend ever return to represent Bangladesh again, or will his cricketing journey remain confined to foreign leagues?