Asif Akbar: Shakib Must Change Before Returning to National Side

Shakib Al Hasan, the legendary all-rounder, has represented Bangladesh for many years with bat and ball. Once regarded as the best all-rounder in the world, Shakib’s cricketing reputation now shares the stage with political controversies and public scrutiny.

Recently, newly appointed BCB director Asif Akbar stated that under the current circumstances, he sees no possibility of Shakib returning to the national team. He emphasised that only through remorse and a change in attitude could the situation improve.

Asif said, “If Shakib remains unrepentant, I see no chance of him playing for Bangladesh. With his current attitude, I would not want him in the team either. It cannot happen. Respect for the nation and the martyrs must come first before returning to cricket.”

He added, “If he apologises, shows remorse, and returns to the discipline that defined his earlier career, the situation could change. Only then can we see Shakib Al Hasan back in his true form.”

Despite criticism of Shakib’s political involvement, Asif Akbar remains a fan of his cricketing talent. “As a cricketer, Shakib is unparalleled. Shakib Al Hasan is a brand—such a player will not appear in Bangladesh for the next 100 years. We must separate Shakib the politician from Shakib the cricketer,” he said.

Summary of Shakib Al Hasan’s Cricketing Achievements:

Shakib remains a cricketing icon, but his current political engagements and the controversies surrounding them have cast a long shadow over his playing career. Only a shift in mindset and attitude can pave the way for his return to Bangladesh cricket.