DHAKA: Once the face of Bangladesh cricket, Shakib Al Hasan’s return to the national team has hit another roadblock after his recent political association sparked controversy. Shakib joined the media event by telephone on Wednesday, where Hasina addressed journalists two years after being removed from power. Following the appearance, Haque said the government’s previous flexible approach toward Shakib’s possible return could no longer continue. Despite the controversy, the Bangladesh Cricket Board had earlier indicated that Shakib could continue playing international cricket. In January, the board said he remained eligible for selection after he announced retirement plans in September 2024 following Bangladesh’s Test series against India.