Bangladesh cricket star and former Awami League MP Shakib Al Hasan has said he is prepared to return to Bangladesh, face the legal cases against him and even play a farewell international series, provided the government guarantees his safety. 

Speaking to Reuters from Sri Lanka, where he is currently playing franchise cricket, the 39-year-old all-rounder said he was willing to surrender before the courts and cooperate with the judicial process if he receives assurances over his security.

"If I get the clearance from the government that my security will be ensured, I am happy to go back, face the court trial and everything that's needed to be done," Shakib said. 

Shakib, who has been living in the United States since the fall of the Awami League government in August 2024, said he still hopes to bid farewell to international cricket on home soil and represent Bangladesh at the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup. 

The former Bangladesh captain is facing multiple legal cases, including a murder case linked to the 2024 student-led uprising. He dismissed the allegations as fabricated, saying the murder case was filed over an incident that occurred while he was playing a cricket match in Toronto. 

Responding to Shakib's remarks, the government said the law applies equally to everyone regardless of status.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's Press Secretary AAM. Saleh said Shakib remains an accused person and must surrender before the courts to face the judicial process under Bangladesh's laws. 

Shakib also revealed that he had previously attempted to return to Bangladesh in late 2024 after receiving assurances of security, but was instructed to turn back while en route and returned to the United States. Another planned return was reportedly halted after he posted a birthday message for former prime minister Sheikh Hasina on social media. 

The comments came a day after Shakib's ancestral home in Magura was attacked following his virtual participation in a media event with Sheikh Hasina in New Delhi. No casualties were reported in the incident. 

Despite the legal and political challenges, Shakib said he continues to enjoy cricket but acknowledged that time is running out on his playing career.

"I am feeling good, still enjoying the game, playing well also. But age is not on my side, so I cannot wait for too long," he said.