The career of former Bangladesh skipper and global all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan in the national team appears to have reached a definitive end, following a stern directive from the Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain.

Shakib, long considered the "poster boy" of Bangladesh cricket, has not worn the national team's jersey since the student-people's uprising last year that led to the collapse of the Awami League government, largely due to the political affiliations he gained as an elected Member of Parliament for the former ruling party.

In an interview with a popular television channel, Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain indicated that Shakib’s political affiliations have made it impossible for him to return to the Bangladesh jersey. 

“He will no longer be allowed to carry Bangladesh’s flag or wear its jersey. I had not previously shared this with the BCB, but now my instructions to the board are clear: Shakib Al Hasan cannot play for the national team again,” the adviser said.

He also cited Shakib’s involvement in politics as the core reason. “Whenever he requested to return to play, he claimed he was forced into nominations and was not politically involved. The truth is, he was deeply connected to Awami League politics — something that has now been confirmed,” he added.

The adviser referred to a recent social media post by Shakib, in which the cricketer wished former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina a happy birthday. The post, which went viral on Sunday night, was cited as evidence of his political ties. Bhuiya later commented on Facebook that the decision not to reinstate Shakib to the national team had been the right one, writing, “Many criticized me for not rehabilitating him, but I was correct. The discussion ends here.”

Responding to the remarks, Shakib wrote on social media: “Finally, someone admitted why I was not allowed to wear the Bangladesh jersey or play for my country. Perhaps one day I will return to my motherland. I love Bangladesh.”

He later clarified his post, stating, “Sheikh Hasina has always followed sports seriously. She has watched games closely. That connection with sports existed long before politics. My wishes had no political intent or message.”

Shakib formally entered politics in 2024 while still active in the national team, joining the ruling Awami League and being elected to parliament. However, following the party’s fall on August 5, 2024, his political career stalled. 

During the uprising, Shakib remained abroad and faced multiple legal cases in Bangladesh, preventing his return and effectively closing the door to his national team career.

SMS/