Shakib Al Hasan cleared to conclude his Test career at home in the Bangladesh vs South Africa series

Like any other cricket player, Shakib Al Hasan wanted to script the conclusion of his career at home. In any other scenario, the wish would have been a cakewalk to fulfill. However, in Shakib's case, his ambition proved quite tricky, with political tension making the situation volatile in his country. Additionally, as the all-rounder, also a political figure in Bangladesh, was embroiled in a murder case, his selection in the Test squad for South Africa's tour of Bangladesh faced uncertainty. However, clarity has now emerged regarding Hasan's participation in what turns out to be the last Test series of his career.

Shakib Al Hasan all clear to play his last Test for Bangladesh at home in the South Africa Tour of Bangladesh

Shakib Al Hasan is preparing for his final appearance in Test cricket on home soil. The veteran all-rounder has been named in Bangladesh squad for the first Test against South Africa, which begins on Monday, 21 October. Ahead of the second and final Test against India in Kanpur, Shakib had expressed his desire to play his last Test at home against South Africa. However, with murder charges on his head, the 37-year-old demanded the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to ensure his safety.

Shakib's name was involved in the murder case of a student. The same case also named country's former PM Sheikh Hasina as another accuse. However, it was later reported that the Bangladeshi all-rounder was in Canada participating in a T20 league at the time of the incident. However, Faruque Ahmed, the newly appointed president of the BCB, turned down Shakib's request for protection, stating that the board was not a security agency and couldn't provide such assurances.

Bangladesh’s interim government's sports advisor, Asif Mahmud, noted that security would be provided for Shakib once his political position became clear. In response, Shakib issued an unconditional apology for his silence during the recent civil unrest in Bangladesh, which led to the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Following the second Test against South Africa in Chattogram, Bangladesh will head to the UAE to face Afghanistan in a three-match ODI series. Since Shakib remains part of the ODI squad, he is expected to join the team for the series, facilitating a smooth exit from the country. The opening Test of the series, set to begin on October 21, will also mark the debut of interim coach Phil Simmons, who has stepped in after the suspension and imminent dismissal of Chandika Hathurusingha.