Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Faruque Ahmed has expressed optimism regarding the return of star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan to the national side. Shakib has been away from the team and the country since the 2024 series against India, largely due to ongoing legal complexities.
Speaking to the media on Saturday (February 21), Faruque Ahmed addressed the long-standing uncertainty surrounding the veteran cricketer. "We have been working on Shakib’s situation since I took over as president," he stated. "There is no doubt about his fitness or professionalism. The BCB always wants him to represent Bangladesh; he is a massive asset and a brand for our cricket."
While the BCB is ready to select Shakib based on his performance and fitness, the President noted that the legal hurdles are being handled at a government level. "The government is looking into the legal issues. We hope for good news very soon," he added.
Faruque Ahmed also addressed the recent exclusion of the ‘A Plus’ category from the BCB central contracts, a move that has sparked significant debate. He explained that the decision reflects the current transition in Bangladesh cricket.
"Previously, players like Tamim Iqbal, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Shakib were regular fixtures in all three formats. Currently, we don't have players who are essential and consistently playing every format. Therefore, the Cricket Operations Committee decided to start the grading from 'A' instead of 'A Plus'," the BCB chief explained.
The board's stance suggests a hopeful outlook for Shakib’s return to the red-and-green jersey as they look to stabilize the national squad for future tours.
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