Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Faruque Ahmed confirmed that all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan remains part of the national team's plans for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, despite the challenges posed by his ongoing stay abroad.
The tournament is scheduled for February-March next year.
Speaking at an event promoting the "Youth Festival 2025" alongside the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), Faruque addressed questions about Shakib's absence from the national setup.
Shakib's current situation has seen him miss several key series, including the recent home Test series against South Africa and the ODI series against Afghanistan in the UAE. He is also unlikely to feature in the upcoming ODI series against the West Indies, though the squad for that tour is yet to be announced.
Faruque acknowledged the difficulties of representing the national team while remaining abroad. "Shakib is still in our plans, and we know his capabilities. However, it’s not easy for any player to contribute to the national team without being physically and mentally integrated into the team environment," Faruque said.
The BCB president emphasized that preparation and team cohesion are essential for international cricket, pointing out that playing for a franchise is not the same as representing the country. "You need preparation and the ability to gel with the team. Since he’s unable to do those things, it’s a challenge for him to be mentally ready to play for Bangladesh."
When asked about Shakib's involvement in the BPL, Faruque suggested the situation depended on legal and administrative factors beyond the board’s control. "The reasons why he cannot return are not related to the BCB. Decisions about his participation will depend on the law enforcement agencies and the judiciary," he added.
The uncertainty surrounding Shakib's availability highlights the complex dynamics between his personal circumstances and professional commitments, leaving his immediate future with the national team in question. Despite this, the BCB remains hopeful of his inclusion in the Champions Trophy, provided a resolution is reached.
