The dust has barely settled on Bangladesh’s exit from the T20 World Cup scene, but the headlines are already being dominated by one name: Shakib Al Hasan. After a period of exile, political turmoil, and uncertainty, it appears the veteran all-rounder is finally set to wear the "Green and Red" once again.
But this isn't just a simple comeback. A former cricketing legend has revealed an "interesting roadmap" that could see Shakib playing much longer than anyone anticipated.
The "Roadmap" revealed by Mohammad Ashraful
Former Bangladesh captain and current batting coach Mohammad Ashraful has stepped forward with a strategic vision for Shakib’s twilight years. Magicwin While many expected Shakib to use the upcoming series against Pakistan as a "farewell" tour, Ashraful believes the ambition should be much higher.
The Roadmap Highlights:
Targeting 2027: Ashraful suggests that Shakib should set his sights on the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Selective Format Play: To manage his workload (as he will be 38–40 during that period), the suggestion is for Shakib to focus primarily on ODI cricket, much like Mushfiqur Rahim has done with the Test format.
Franchise Fitness: Ashraful noted that since Shakib is constantly playing in global T20 leagues (like the Global T20 Canada or various franchise tournaments), his match fitness remains elite, making a limited-overs specialist role for the national team highly viable.
The BCB’s Green Light
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has officially opened the door. BCB director Asif Akbar and other senior officials confirmed that they are in regular contact with Shakib. The current plan targets the home series against Pakistan in March 2026 as the official return window.
The board is reportedly working with the government to resolve the legal and security hurdles that have kept Shakib out of the country since the fall of the previous government.
Controversy: A "Genuine Reset" or an "Eyewash"?
Not everyone is convinced by the timing of this announcement. Former captain Tamim Iqbal has raised concerns, questioning if this sudden move is a genuine cricketing decision or merely "eyewash" to distract fans from the team's recent struggles and the T20 World Cup fallout.
Tamim emphasized that a player of Shakib's stature deserves respect and should only be brought back if the decision is based on merit and a clear green signal from the government, rather than as a PR stunt to calm public anger.
What’s Next for Shakib?
Shakib remains characteristically guarded, simply stating, "Let's see what happens." However, with the BCB reinstating him in the central contract list and aiming for a March return, the countdown to seeing one of the world's greatest all-rounders back in action has officially begun.
Whether he reaches the 2027 World Cup or bows out after a final home series, the "Shakib Saga" is far from over.
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