The Shakib Card: Bangladesh Cricket Board’s Controversial Move Amid T20 World Cup Disgrace

Bangladeshi Cricket witnessed one of its most turbulent days on Saturday, January 24, 2026, when the ICC officially replaced Bangladesh with Scotland in the T20 World Cup. This marked a humiliating setback following Bangladesh’s refusal to play matches in India, triggering widespread criticism.

Later that day, an unexpected twist emerged: Shakib Al Hasan, barred from entering Bangladesh for over a year, was suddenly cleared by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to potentially conclude his international career at home. BCB Media Committee chairman Amzad Hossain and director Asif Akbar confirmed his eligibility, sending shockwaves through the cricketing community.

The Controversial Timing

The timing of Shakib’s clearance raised eyebrows. The board could have made this announcement anytime, but it coincided with Bangladesh’s elimination from the World Cup. Analysts question whether it was a genuine move to restore Shakib’s dignity or a strategic distraction from national embarrassment.

Earlier, Asif Akbar had stated Shakib would need to express regret and apologize for past actions to be considered. Yet at a press conference, Akbar reversed himself, allowing Shakib to play if fit, highlighting contradictions within the BCB and casting doubt on the decision’s intent.

Publicity Stunt or Genuine Gesture?

Veteran journalist Ariful Islam Roney called the BCB’s move “ridiculous,” noting that Shakib’s political ambitions with the Awami League complicated the narrative. “This is clearly a publicity gimmick and a face-saving measure to divert attention from World Cup failures,” he said.

The last time Shakib played for Bangladesh was against India in October 2024. The BCB’s sudden clearance, seemingly using him as a ‘card,’ underscores ongoing administrative chaos and a lack of coherent strategy.

Administrative Turmoil at BCB

The BCB is facing unprecedented instability. Ishtiaque Sadeque, director and chairman of the Game Development Committee, resigned citing family reasons, though insiders attribute it to frustration over systemic dysfunction. Similarly, Mokhlesur Rahman Shamim resigned amid match-fixing allegations exposed by journalist Riyasad Azim.

Bangladesh also lost 14 out of 16 votes to host T20 World Cup matches outside India, compounding board challenges. Internal clashes, sometimes escalating to physical altercations, highlight the governance crisis within Bangladeshi cricket.

Shakib’s Respect vs Board Manipulation

While Shakib Al Hasan deserves recognition as Bangladesh’s premier cricketer and a global icon, his return appears entangled in board politics. Contradictory statements by Asif Akbar reveal a BCB more concerned with image management than resolving systemic issues.

Experts suggest that instead of using Shakib to mask administrative failures, the board should sincerely engage with him, respecting his retirement or continuation choices. Focus should be on strengthening Bangladesh cricket’s governance and infrastructure for international credibility.

Bangladesh cricket now stands at a crossroads. Shakib’s clearance symbolizes both hope and controversy, testing whether the BCB will prioritize the sport or continue relying on star players as distractions.