BCB chief suggests that Shakib could be available for the ICC Champions Trophy

Faruque Ahmed, president of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), has suggested that Shakib Al Hasan could be available for the ICC Champions Trophy, which will be held in Pakistan and the UAE in February-March this year.

During a visit to the press box at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Friday, while attending a BPL match, Faruque explained that Shakib has not retired, so there are no issues regarding his availability. Although Shakib retired from both T20I and Test cricket, he had planned to play his final Test in Bangladesh last October. However, due to his political ties with the ousted Awami League, he was unable to return home to play.

"Shakib hasn't officially retired. If he had, we wouldn't be having this discussion," Faruque said on Friday. "The issues surrounding him need to be resolved at the government level. Once that happens, we can move forward. His fitness, mental state, and the selection committee's decision will determine his participation." After the Awami League government's ouster in August, Shakib played for Bangladesh in India but couldn't return home due to concerns for his safety because of political reasons. Since the Champions Trophy will be held outside the country, it's possible that Shakib could play if he is fit enough.