Shakib Al Hasan announces T20I retirement, set for final Test appearance in October

Shakib Al Hasan, one of Bangladesh's most iconic cricketers, has announced that the upcoming Dhaka Test against South Africa in October will be his last.

Shakib, who also announced his retirement from T20 Internationals with immediate effect, made the revelation ahead of the Kanpur Test against India, marking a gradual wind-down of his illustrious international career. Moving forward, the all-rounder confirmed that he will only feature in ODIs for Bangladesh.

His announcement comes amid uncertainty surrounding the South Africa series, as Cricket South Africa has yet to grant security clearance following venue inspections earlier this week. This follows recent unrest in Bangladesh during July and August, which saw hundreds of casualties. The security concerns stem from the political turmoil that led to the fall of the Awami League-led government, of which Shakib was a member of parliament.

"I am available for the South Africa series but since there's a lot happening back home, naturally not everything depends on me," Shakib said. "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."

The 37-year-old stated that if he can play in the South Africa series, he would like his final Test to be held in Mirpur. However, personal safety remains a concern for the cricketer.

"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."

"I am a citizen of Bangladesh, so I shouldn't have any problem going back to Bangladesh," he said. "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."

Shakib's T20I career concluded after the 2024 T20 World Cup, where he finished as the tournament's all-time leading wicket-taker with 50 wickets. Over 129 T20I appearances, he amassed 2551 runs and claimed 149 wickets. As for his ODI future, Shakib hinted that the 2025 Champions Trophy would likely be his final international assignment.