Bangladesh veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has received a fresh lifeline in his international career, with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) deciding to reinstate him in the central contract list. The move has significantly raised hopes that the former captain may yet get the opportunity to end his illustrious playing career on home soil.

Shakib was previously removed from the central contracts following the political changes in the country, including the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. His omission had cast serious doubt over his future with the national team. However, the BCB’s latest decision signals a shift in stance, coming at a time when Bangladesh cricket is navigating turbulent waters after being removed from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

Addressing the media on Saturday, BCB officials made it clear that Shakib remains firmly in contention for national selection. The board confirmed that as long as he is available and medically fit, he will be considered for matches regardless of venue. The BCB also assured that Shakib would be granted No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to participate in other tournaments, allowing him to maintain match fitness.

With 447 international appearances and 14,730 runs across formats, Shakib remains one of Bangladesh’s greatest-ever cricketers. Despite his advancing age, his experience and all-round ability continue to make him a valuable option.

Earlier, Shakib had openly expressed his desire to play his farewell Test in front of his home crowd. He revealed that his motivation to continue playing was driven solely by the hope of returning to Bangladesh and retiring in front of fans who supported him throughout his career.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s exit from the T20 World Cup 2026 has seen Scotland replace them in Group C, marking a significant moment in the tournament’s build-up and adding further context to the BCB’s latest decision regarding Shakib.