Explaining the reasons given by Shakib behind his decision during discussions, Sarkar said, “He said the time is apt for him to make way for youngsters. The announcement came after an intense discussion. It was a well-thought decision and he has kept every stakeholder in the loop. Obviously, when a player of his stature makes such an announcement, a lot of talks get started but Shakib was very clear what he has to do before the Chennai Test and made a formal announcement once everyone was on the same page.”

Sarkar, however, said Shakib has just decided not to play Twenty20 Internationals for some time unlike popular perception and will be available if the BCB needs him. “He will continue playing in various T20 leagues across the globe. He wanted a break from T20Is but will make himself available if the country needs him during the 2026 T20 World Cup. As far as One-Day Internationals are concerned, he wishes to continue in the format at least till the 2025 Champions Trophy. So one can safely assume that at the moment, he has decided to quit the longest format of the game,”

Sarkar, an opening batter, who played 17 Tests and 20 ODIs for his country between 2002 and 2004, also made it clear that Shakib at the moment has no plans to serve Bangladesh cricket. “Given his desire to play in the T20 leagues, he will hardly get any time to serve Bangladesh cricket. Maybe in future, he can think about that but for now, he will remain an active cricketer, albeit for various franchises.”

After Bangladesh’s historic win in Pakistan, Shakib flew to England to represent Surrey in the red-ball cricket even as his teammates returned to the country to prepare for the India series. He shone for his County team against Somerset claiming four and five wickets in the first and second innings respectively but could not carry forward that success in the first Test against India where he went wicketless in both essays. His contribution with the bat was also modest with him scoring 32 and 25 in the two innings.