Former Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan has said that he is ready to return to Bangladesh and appear before the country’s courts over the cases against him if the government can guarantee his security. The veteran all-rounder has remained outside the country amid a tumultuous political situation.
Now playing franchise cricket in Sri Lanka in the 2026 Lanka Premier League, Shakib says he is prepared to face the legal proceedings rather than continue avoiding them provided he receives adequate protection.
"If I get the clearance from the government that my security will be ensured, I am happy to go back, face the court trial and everything that's needed to be done," Shakib told Reuters.
"I know I haven't done anything. It's a laughable case."
Shakib has, as per reports, been named among 147 people accused in a murder case linked to the deadly unrest that engulfed Bangladesh in 2024. However, he has rejected the allegations against him. Notably, Shakib contested the 2024 parliamentary election as a candidate of Sheikh Hasina's Awami League and won a seat in parliament.
However, his political stint became highly controversial after the collapse of Hasina's government during the mass uprising in 2024. In the wake of deadly protests, Sheikh Hasina left Bangladesh and has been living in India. In November 2025, a Bangladeshi tribunal sentenced Hasina to death in absentia over crimes connected to the crackdown on the protests.
As for Shakib Al Hasan, he currently lives in the United States, but he has expressed optimism about playing a farewell home series. Currently, Shakib has been playing in the 2026 Lanka Premier League, representing Jaffna Kings.
"I am playing most of the franchise leagues. I am feeling good, still enjoying the game, playing well also. But ... age is not on my side at this moment, so I cannot wait for too long," Shakib said.