'Not a lot to say about Shakib': says the BCB president

Since the political shift in the country, Shakib Al Hasan has become a puzzling figure in Bangladesh cricket. Questions arise about his participation before every series, and the upcoming ODI series against the West Indies is no exception. However, BCB President Faruq Ahmed has no definitive answers regarding the nation's greatest cricketer, keeping everyone guessing.

Shakib last played for the national team during the India tour in September. Before the second Test of that series, the veteran all-rounder announced his retirement from Test cricket and T20Is. He expressed a desire to bid farewell to Test cricket in Mirpur against South Africa.

However, after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government, Shakib was accused in a murder case. Concerns over security discouraged him from returning to the country, preventing him from receiving a formal farewell from Test cricket.

Bangladesh are currently on a full tour of the Caribbean, with the second Test ongoing at Jamaica's Sabina Park. The visitors will play a three-match ODI series after the Tests. However, the squad for the ODIs has yet to be announced, and speculation about Shakib's inclusion continues to grow.

Even BCB President Faruq Ahmed has avoided providing a clear answer. Speaking to the media on Sunday at an event marking the launch of the "Festival of Youth," organised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports with BCB's support, Faruq sidestepped questions about Shakib's participation.

"I don't really have many answers regarding Shakib. If I'm repeatedly asked… I'm not exactly embarrassed, but I do want Shakib to play. However, the reason he cannot come is not something related to the cricket board. It's a matter for the law enforcement agencies and the courts to resolve," he explained.

Currently, Shakib is leading the Bangla Tigers in the Abu Dhabi T10 League. Before the tournament began, he mentioned in a press conference that he would think about the national team after the T10 League. However, his team has already been eliminated, finishing ninth out of ten.

If Shakib cannot play in the West Indies ODI series, his participation in the ICC Champions Trophy in February-March will also remain uncertain. On this matter, the BCB President provided no clarity either.

"Shakib is still on our list (for the Champions Trophy). We hope that if the issues are resolved the way he wants, Shakib still has the ability to play for the national team," Faruq said.

"But for a cricketer, just playing franchise tournaments abroad and not for the national team is not ideal, mentally or otherwise. Playing in franchise leagues and representing your country are completely different. There's preparation, and team cohesion is very important. Since he hasn't been able to do that, I think Shakib is not mentally ready to play for the country right now. In this regard, we've left the decision entirely to him."

The BCB President's remarks suggest little hope for Shakib's immediate return.

Meanwhile, the Lanka T10 League is set to begin on 11th December in Sri Lanka. Galle Marbles have already signed Shakib through a direct contract before the players' draft. If he cannot travel to the West Indies, the experienced all-rounder may appear in the Sri Lanka T10 League instead.