Speculation has intensified about whether Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan’s Test career is over, following the Kanpur Test against India.
Shakib, who previously hinted that his final Test match would be at home in Mirpur against South Africa, now faces uncertainty about his future in the longest format of the game.
Concerns about Shakib's safety due to political unrest in Bangladesh have added to the uncertainty. He was implicated in a murder case linked to anti-government protests, raising doubts about his return to the country. Amid these concerns, Shakib has traveled to the United States following the Kanpur Test, fueling rumors that it might have been his last Test appearance.
Despite the situation, Shakib has confirmed his intention to retire from Test cricket after the planned Mirpur Test, if it proceeds as scheduled. He expressed a desire to conclude his Test career on home soil, although his safety in Bangladesh remains a concern.
Shakib has already retired from T20 Internationals and plans to play his final ODI tournament in the 2025 Champions Trophy. The cricket world now awaits a final decision on his Test career, but the prevailing uncertainty means that his Test journey may have effectively concluded with the Kanpur match.
