Bangladesh’s veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has made a significant announcement, declaring his intention to retire from Test cricket. This decision comes after a stellar career spanning numerous years. Shakib revealed his plans during a pre-match press briefing in Kanpur, stating his desire to play one final Test match in Mirpur against South Africa. However, he has also indicated that if this match doesn’t materialize, the upcoming second Test against India will mark the end of his Test journey.
Adding to this news, Shakib also confirmed that he has already played his last T20 match, effectively announcing his retirement from the shortest format of the game. This decision marks the end of an era for the talented all-rounder who has consistently dominated the T20 circuit.
Shakib Al Hasan has left an indelible mark on Test cricket, having played 70 matches and scoring 4600 runs with an impressive average of 38.33. His batting prowess is evident in the five centuries and 31 half-centuries he has accumulated during his career. But Shakib’s contributions go beyond his batting, as he has also proven to be a formidable bowler, taking 242 wickets in his Test career. This includes 19 instances of claiming five wickets in an innings and two instances of taking ten wickets in a single match.
Shakib has been a vital part of the Bangladesh cricket team for years, consistently contributing significantly to both the bowling and batting departments. His performances have been highlighted by key innings and crucial wickets that have often been the deciding factor in crucial matches. His versatility has made him a valuable asset for Bangladesh, making him a force to be reckoned with on the international stage.
Shakib’s retirement from Test cricket marks the end of an era for Bangladesh cricket. His contributions to the team have been invaluable, and his presence will undoubtedly be missed. While his Test career may be coming to an end, his legacy as a world-class all-rounder will continue to inspire future generations of cricketers.
