Shakib set to arrive in Dhaka tomorrow

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) announced a 15-member squad on Wednesday for the first Test against South Africa, scheduled to start on October 21 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. This match will mark the 37-year-old Shakib's final appearance in Test cricket. On September 26, just before the second Test against India in Kanpur earlier this month, Shakib revealed his plans to retire from the longest format. He expressed his wish to say goodbye to Test cricket at home in Mirpur during Bangladesh's series against South Africa. He participated in both Tests against India, where Bangladesh suffered a 2-0 defeat.

Shakib, a former member of parliament from the Awami League government that was ousted on August 5 following student-led protests, faces allegations related to a murder case and has voiced concerns about his safety upon returning to Bangladesh. He hopes for a secure exit after the match concludes. 

Amidst speculation surrounding his return, Shakib received reassurance from Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud, who promised adequate protection for the all-rounder. 

"We will definitely provide the highest level of security for our player. Any allegations against individuals are a separate matter, and I cannot comment on that as it falls under the Ministry of Law's jurisdiction. However, we are committed to ensuring Shakib Al Hasan's safety, and we will honor that commitment," Asif stated while in Sharjah for the Women's T20 World Cup match between Bangladesh and Scotland on October 4.