The second Test against India this week could be Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan’s last in this format if he is denied a home farewell next month, the under-pressure player said in an abrupt announcement. Shakib was a member of parliament for the Awami League led by Sheikh Hasina, whose 15-year rule as prime minister ended in August with her fleeing to India following deadly protests. Shakib is considered the greatest cricketer Bangladesh has produced but his political past places the former captain in a tricky position as an interim government supervises a power transition. Shakib has not been home since protests erupted in July but the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has assured him he will not be harassed on his return.
“I am available for the South Africa series but since there’s a lot happening back home, naturally not everything depends on me,” Shakib said. “I have discussed my plans about Test cricket with the BCB…” he said while also announcing his retirement from T20 Internationals with immediate effect.