Shakib Al Hasan Announces Retirement from Test Cricket, Hints at Farewell in India
Bangladesh’s legendary all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has expressed his desire to retire from Test cricket, with his final match potentially being against South Africa in Mirpur or India in the upcoming second Test. The 35-year-old also confirmed his retirement from T20 cricket.
Shakib made the announcement during a pre-match press conference in Kanpur ahead of the first Test against India. “I have expressed my desire to play my last Test in Mirpur, if that won’t happen, the second Test against India would be my last,” he said.
Shakib’s Test career has been a remarkable one. In 70 matches, he has amassed 4600 runs at an average of 38.33, including five centuries and 31 half-centuries. With the ball, he has claimed 242 wickets, including 19 five-wicket hauls and two ten-wicket matches.
His all-round abilities have made him an indispensable member of the Bangladesh team. He has often played match-winning innings and taken crucial wickets, guiding his side to memorable victories.
Shakib’s retirement from Test cricket will mark the end of an era for Bangladesh cricket. He has been a role model for aspiring cricketers and has played a pivotal role in the team’s rise to prominence.
While he may be stepping away from the longest format, Shakib is expected to continue playing One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). He remains one of the most experienced and respected players in the world, and his contributions to Bangladesh cricket will continue to be invaluable.
