Shakib Al Hasan, one of the best all-rounders to have played the game, experienced a bitter reality this year; not a single IPL franchise showed interest in him. The auction list did not include him, and he went unsold. However, all this serves as a stark reminder of the ruthless nature of the Indian Premier League (IPL), where even a high-profile player like him is susceptible to feeling immediately surplus.
Why did the IPL snub Shakib?
Shakib’s exclusion from the IPL could be due to several factors. Though he remained a brilliant player and captain, age may have been a factor. Additionally, IPL teams typically prioritise acquiring young players who can provide overall benefits. Shakib’s exclusion, though shocking, is not exactly out of character in the razor-edged world of franchise cricket.
Big Bash League Door Closed
Shakib’s chances in the Big Bash League (BBL) are no better. His omission from the side is not only on performance grounds but also because of Cricket Australia’s ethical issues. The BBI “ethical police” fought against his inclusion in 2020 after suspending him for failing to disclose corrupt approaches. Hence, this BBL is all but a closed chapter for Shakib.
Bright Prospects in CPL and PSL
Shakib may now find the IPL and BBL completely closed to him. Still, other promising leagues exist, such as the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and Pakistan Super League (PSL), where performing well is possible. Shakib has participated in at least 30 to 36 CPL matches, marking his first participation since 2022. His spin bowling is still potent on the Caribbean pitches and a critical asset in any CPL team.
Although he has only played in 14 PSL matches since the tournament’s founding in 2016, the current circumstances may encourage more regular participation. As an experienced and impactful all-rounder, Shakib may appeal to PSL franchises.
BPL: A Complicated Future
Shakib’s participation in the BPL is undoubtedly political but complex, with numerous challenges. Here’s why he is a political complicator. Having been an MP for the ruling party, the new political environment makes it challenging for him to return freely to Bangladesh. Will Shakib be able to play in the current political climate despite the assurance of a spot in the BPL?
Other Tournaments: A Game of Patience
Shakib is unlikely to play in South Africa’s SA20 League and UAE’s International T20 League this season. A UAE franchise has not yet picked him up, and he missed the recent SA20 auction. It remains to be seen whether that can still lead to New Zealand’s Super Smash, as the squad announcements are not finalised.
Shakib Al Hasan’s tenure in the IPL may be ending, but his journey in franchise cricket remains far from over. Chadwick hopes that his future in both the CPL and PSL continues to be bright and that he still has plenty to give as one of the world’s best all-rounders. Yet his legacy in world cricket is safe, although political obstacles might make his appearance in the BPL less easy. This absence from specific leagues may be temporary, but his impact on the game is more permanent.