Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal has said Shakib Al Hasan will only be able to resume his national career if he comes back to the country and faces the legal cases pending against him.

Speaking on a cricket podcast this week, Tamim — who is preparing to contest the upcoming Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) election — was asked about Shakib’s chances of returning to the national side.

The two men, once close teammates, have been seen on opposite ends of the country’s cricket and political landscape.

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Shakib, who was an MP of the Awami League government toppled in last year’s July uprising, has been living abroad since and faces multiple cases, including a murder charge.

“He’s an active cricketer, he’s a Bangladeshi cricketer,” Tamim said. “If he is fit, training, and the selectors feel he deserves a place, of course he can return. But bringing him back isn’t in my hands — there are legal matters involved.”

Tamim stressed that the board cannot intervene in court case.

“To play for Bangladesh, he must first come back, train with the team, and fight his cases in court. That’s the reality. I won’t hide it. This is his country and his career. What he chooses to do is up to him,” Tamim added. 

Shakib, now 38, has not played for Bangladesh since 2024. His uncertain future continues to hang over the team at a time of political upheaval and transition in cricket administration.