The Bangladesh national team’s fitness trainer has expressed strong confidence that star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan will return to international cricket in peak physical condition, easing concerns over his fitness despite his prolonged absence from the national setup.
Shakib, widely regarded as one of Bangladesh’s greatest ever cricketers, remains a central figure in ongoing discussions within the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) regarding his future involvement with the national team. Although no official timeline has been set for his return, team management continues to monitor developments surrounding the veteran all-rounder.
Speaking on Wednesday at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, where Bangladesh’s national conditioning camp is currently in progress, fitness trainer Iftikhar Ifti offered an encouraging update on the player’s physical preparedness.
He emphasised that Shakib, as an elite international athlete, maintains a structured and professional fitness routine even while staying abroad. According to him, the cricketer continues to work closely with his personal fitness trainer, physiotherapist, and nutrition experts, ensuring that his conditioning remains at a consistently high standard.
“He is an international star,” Ifti said. “Even while staying outside the country, he maintains his fitness. From what I understand, he has access to his own trainer, physio, and nutrition support. I do not think he is lacking in training facilities. In fact, he is probably being monitored more closely than what we could manage here.”
The trainer also clarified that the BCB currently does not have access to detailed or up-to-date fitness data regarding Shakib. However, based on his professional experience and available observations, he remains confident that the cricketer will be fully match-ready upon his return to competitive cricket.
Fitness and Monitoring Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Player | Shakib Al Hasan |
| Current Location | Outside Bangladesh |
| Training Support | Personal trainer, physiotherapist, nutritionist |
| BCB Fitness Data | Not currently available |
| Expected Condition | Fully fit upon return (anticipated) |
| Selection Status | Not yet confirmed |
Ifti further stressed that no definitive decision has been taken regarding when Shakib will become available for national selection. He described the situation as one of national significance, requiring coordinated planning at board level rather than individual decisions.
“His situation is a national matter,” he explained. “We have not yet developed any fixed plan regarding his return or involvement. When he comes back and when the BCB considers him ready, we will then prepare a structured plan involving him.”
His comments come at a time when the BCB is actively reviewing long-term squad composition and workload management strategies ahead of upcoming international fixtures, with particular attention on senior players and their physical conditioning.
Beyond Shakib’s individual case, the trainer also addressed wider perceptions about the fitness standards of Bangladeshi cricketers. Responding to criticism that players lack discipline in maintaining physical conditioning, he rejected such claims and highlighted measurable improvements in recent years.
“Many people say our players are not responsible or not fit enough,” he said. “But the reality is quite different. Players are now far more aware. They regularly communicate with trainers and physiotherapists. There is a clear positive shift in their mindset and routines.”
He added that modern training methodologies, improved support systems, and stronger engagement between players and coaching staff have significantly enhanced the overall fitness culture within Bangladesh cricket.
As discussions continue regarding Shakib’s eventual return, the national camp remains focused on preparation and conditioning, with officials reiterating that any selection decision will depend on verified fitness assessments and team requirements at the appropriate time.