Shakib Al Hasan Announces Retirement Plan, Set to Exit All Formats After 2025 Champions Trophy

Shakib Al Hasan has officially announced his retirement from T20 internationals, confirming that his final T20I was during the 2024 T20 World Cup. He plans to retire from Test cricket after the upcoming home series against South Africa, scheduled for October-November 2024, marking the end of his remarkable 17-year career in the longest format. Additionally, Shakib has stated that he will retire from ODI cricket following the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.

In his statements regarding his retirement, Shakib expressed:

"I am available for the South Africa series but since there's a lot happening back home, naturally not everything depends on me. I have discussed my plans about Test cricket with the BCB. Especially this series and the home series. I was thinking that it could be my last Test series."

He also noted his discussions with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB):

"I have told [BCB president] Faruque bhai and the selectors. If there's a chance and if I can play, my last Test will be in Mirpur. The board is trying to ensure that I can play and feel safe, at the same time that I can leave the country without a hitch."

Shakib further highlighted his concerns about safety:

"I am a citizen of Bangladesh, so I shouldn't have any problem going back to Bangladesh. My concern is my safety and security in Bangladesh. My close friends and family members are concerned. I hope things are getting better. There should be a solution to it."

His decision to step back from T20Is and Tests signifies a significant transition for Bangladesh cricket, as he has been a pivotal player for the team across all formats for many years.