Shakib Al Hasan Seeks Return to Bangladesh, Willing to Face Trial and Play Farewell Series
Shakib Al Hasan vows to return from two-year exile to face murder and corruption charges if guaranteed security, and to seek a farewell series at home.
Shakib Al Hasan said he is prepared to end a two-year exile and return to Bangladesh to face criminal charges, including an alleged murder case, if Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s government guarantees his personal safety. The former Bangladesh captain, speaking from Sri Lanka where he is playing franchise cricket, stated he still hopes to represent his country in a farewell series and aims for participation in the 2027 Cricket World Cup. His announcement tests whether the current government will accommodate high-profile figures linked to the deposed Awami League following the violent 2024 uprising.
Shakib Al Hasan Signals Conditional Return
Shakib told reporters he would travel back immediately if authorities provided formal assurances that his security would be protected. He said he had written to the interior, law and sports ministries and to police officials seeking resolution of what he described as fabricated charges, but received no reply. The cricketer indicated he would also be willing to face trial and cooperate fully with judicial proceedings once safe passage is ensured.
Charges Include Alleged Murder and Corruption
Two active cases are cited against Shakib: one alleging the killing of a protester during the 2024 unrest and another by anticorruption authorities alleging financial wrongdoing. Shakib vehemently denied involvement in any wrongdoing and described the murder allegation as “laughable,” noting the alleged incident occurred while he was playing a match in Toronto. He said he has not yet appointed a defence lawyer and contested the legitimacy of the accusations.
Political Fallout after Hasina’s Ouster
The charges against Shakib reflect a broader government campaign following the August 2024 student-led uprising that toppled Sheikh Hasina’s administration. Dozens of Awami League allies have since faced criminal cases and travel restrictions, complicating returns for key figures. Hasina, who was sentenced to death in absentia and has been living abroad, has announced plans to return to Bangladesh in December, a move that could shape how authorities treat allied public figures.
Blocked Returns and a Disrupted Homecoming
Shakib recounted at least two attempts to return that were thwarted despite prior assurances from officials. In late 2024 he boarded a flight after being told security would be provided, only to be instructed mid-journey to turn back and instead disembark in Dubai before returning to New York. A later plan collapsed after he posted a birthday message for Hasina on social media, which he said authorities then used as grounds to bar his re-entry.
Cricket Future and Retirement Plans
At 39, Shakib said he remains active in franchise leagues and does not rule out representing Bangladesh at the 2027 Cricket World Cup, while acknowledging that age will soon limit his options. He expressed a desire to play a farewell series on home soil if circumstances allow, describing it as a priority before full retirement. Despite ongoing legal and political uncertainty, he emphasized that he is still enjoying competitive cricket and remains in good form.
Family and Financial Consequences of Exile
Shakib said the prolonged absence has strained family life, noting he has not seen his parents in two years and that they have been unable to leave Bangladesh. He also reported that his bank accounts have been frozen for around 18 months pending investigation, and he criticized the measures given his record as a high taxpayer. The player declined to name the banks or disclose amounts, but urged authorities to release funds if no wrongdoing is found.
Decision over Shakib’s return now rests with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s administration and how it chooses to handle figures tied to the previous government, including Sheikh Hasina, who plans a voluntary return in December. Shakib said he will follow Hasina’s guidance on timing if immediate travel is not possible, and he defended his recent public appearance alongside her as a call for peace and national progress. The coming weeks are likely to determine whether the former captain can secure safe passage home, resolve legal disputes and close his international career on Bangladeshi soil.