Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has achieved yet another landmark in his distinguished cricketing career after being named in Wisden’s all-time Indian Premier League (IPL) Asian XI. The selection, published by the esteemed cricket publication on Thursday (26 March), recognises the most influential Asian players in the history of the tournament and notably excludes any Indian cricketers from the line-up. Shakib is also the only representative from Bangladesh, highlighting his unique standing in the region’s T20 legacy.
Regarded as one of the most complete all-rounders of the modern era, Shakib’s IPL journey spanned a decade from 2011 to 2021. During this period, he represented franchises including Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad, becoming a dependable utility player in both departments of the game. Across 71 matches, he accumulated 793 runs at an average of 19.82 and a strike rate of 124.48. However, it was his bowling that consistently delivered greater impact, as he claimed 63 wickets at an economy rate of 7.43, underlining his value as a controlled and effective spin option in high-pressure situations.
Wisden’s selected XI reflects a strong Sri Lankan dominance, with six players from Sri Lanka forming the core of the side. The team blends established legends with modern T20 specialists, creating a balanced combination of aggressive batting, world-class spin, and varied pace options. Afghanistan also features prominently through emerging and established T20 talents, while Pakistan-born and England-qualified representation adds further depth to the squad’s diversity.
Wisden IPL Asian XI (All-Time Selection)
| Batting Order | Player | Nation | Role | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sanath Jayasuriya | Sri Lanka | Opener | Explosive powerplay batting |
| 2 | Rahmanullah Gurbaz | Afghanistan | Wicketkeeper-opener | Aggressive modern T20 striker |
| 3 | Kumar Sangakkara | Sri Lanka | Batter | Elegant top-order stability |
| 4 | Mahela Jayawardene | Sri Lanka | Batter | Tactical anchor and leader |
| 5 | Shakib Al Hasan | Bangladesh | All-rounder | 63 wickets, 793 runs |
| 6 | Azhar Mahmood | Pakistan/England | All-rounder | Seam-bowling versatility |
| 7 | Thisara Perera | Sri Lanka | All-rounder | Lower-order power hitting |
| 8 | Muttiah Muralitharan | Sri Lanka | Spinner | Record-breaking wicket-taker |
| 9 | Rashid Khan | Afghanistan | Spinner | Elite T20 leg-spin dominance |
| 10 | Sohail Tanvir | Pakistan | Fast bowler | 2008 Purple Cap winner |
| 11 | Lasith Malinga | Sri Lanka | Fast bowler | Specialist death bowler |
Shakib’s placement at number five reflects his recognised role as a classic T20 all-rounder, capable of stabilising innings while also delivering crucial overs with the ball. His dual impact made him a valuable asset across multiple IPL franchises and seasons, particularly in tightly contested matches where balance between bat and ball is essential.
The dominance of Sri Lankan cricketers in the XI further underlines the country’s historic influence on the IPL’s formative and peak years. Legends such as Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene, Muttiah Muralitharan, and Lasith Malinga not only contributed individually but also helped shape franchise strategies during the league’s early evolution.
Afghanistan’s representation through Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Rashid Khan highlights the nation’s rapid rise in global T20 cricket, with both players symbolising explosive batting potential and world-class spin mastery respectively. Meanwhile, Thisara Perera and Sohail Tanvir add all-round depth and historic tournament impact, particularly Tanvir’s memorable Purple Cap-winning season in 2008.
Shakib’s inclusion in such an elite assemblage reinforces his legacy as one of Asia’s most consistent and adaptable franchise cricketers. His ability to perform across different conditions, roles, and match situations has ensured his place among the IPL’s most respected overseas contributors, cementing his reputation on the global T20 stage.