Bangladesh cricket icon Shakib Al Hasan has hinted at retirement, a significant moment in the country’s cricketing history.
But what’s driving this decision? Let’s explore the potential reasons.
Shakib’s attempt to collect sympathy:
Shakib Al Hasan has faced significant public backlash since August 5th, he is no longer welcomed with open arms in Bangladesh for his past actions. He can’t move around freely, run his businesses, or operate in the way he used to. For someone like Shakib, who is known for doing advertisements even during matches or in practice breaks, it’s tough to live without that privilege.
By making an emotionally charged decision, he might hope to win back support. If people sympathise with him, they may be more likely to forgive his past mistakes.
Concerns over personal security:
As a former Member of Parliament, his involvement with the previous government has complicated matters for him. He now feels like an outsider in his own country and has expressed concerns over his safety.
“I want to return, play, and feel safe,” Shakib has said.
The natural timing for retirement:
There is also the possibility that Shakib feels it is the right moment to call time on his international career. The burden of expectation, coupled with ongoing issues with his eyesight, has weighed heavily on him. The pressures of backlash, form, and health could be pushing him toward this decision.
However, Shakib has left the door open for a future return to T20 internationals. Given his historical indifference toward Test cricket, his potential retirement from the format seems more strategic than a sign of exhaustion.
