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Bangladesh cricket legend Shakib Al Hasan has played his final match for the national team, according to Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud, who confirmed that the country’s most decorated cricketer will no longer appear in national colours.
🏏 End of an Era
Shakib, widely regarded as Bangladesh’s greatest-ever cricketer, has been the face of the nation’s rise in world cricket for nearly two decades. With over 14,000 international runs and 700+ wickets across formats, his all-round brilliance made him a global star and an irreplaceable figure in Bangladesh cricket.
Asif Mahmud’s remarks have now ended months of speculation surrounding Shakib’s international future, especially after his reduced role in recent tournaments.
“Shakib has served the nation with distinction, but his time in the national team has come to an end,” Mahmud stated.
🌟 A Glittering Career
Debut: 2006 against Zimbabwe
Career span: Nearly 20 years
Milestones:
First cricketer with 7,000 runs and 500 wickets in T20s
Ranked World No.1 all-rounder multiple times by ICC
Instrumental in Bangladesh’s biggest wins, including victories against India, South Africa, and England
Shakib’s ability to win matches with both bat and ball elevated him to near-mythical status among fans, making him the country’s first true global cricketing superstar.
⚡ Recent Struggles and Controversies
In recent years, Shakib has faced:
Injuries: Limiting his impact and availability.
Form dips: Inconsistent performances at ICC events.
Off-field controversies: From BCB rifts to political associations, which fueled speculation about his future.
Mahmud’s confirmation suggests that these factors, along with a natural career wind-down, have brought his storied journey to a close.
💔 Fans React
Social media erupted after the news, with emotions ranging from gratitude to heartbreak:
“The end of an era. Thank you, Shakib, for everything.”
“We may never see a cricketer like him again.”
“Sad that it ends this way, without a farewell match.”
🔮 What’s Next for Shakib?
While his international playing days are over, Shakib is expected to remain involved in cricket through:
Domestic and franchise leagues — where his demand remains high.
Mentorship roles — guiding the next generation of Bangladesh cricketers.
Business and personal ventures — Shakib has long been active outside cricket as well.
✨ Conclusion:
The curtain has officially fallen on the international career of Shakib Al Hasan, a player who redefined what Bangladesh cricket could aspire to achieve. His records, impact, and leadership will echo for generations.
Though his journey in national colours is over, his legacy as Bangladesh’s finest cricketer remains untouchable — a blend of brilliance, resilience, and inspiration that shaped the nation’s sporting identity.
