Early Career and Rapid Ascent: Shakib’s cricketing journey began to take shape in his teenage years when he was selected for Bangladesh’s Under-19 team. He quickly made a name for himself as a multifaceted player who excelled at batting, bowling, and fielding. This versatility and his consistently stellar performances caught the attention of the national selectors, culminating in his ODI debut against Zimbabwe in 2006. It was clear from the get-go that Shakib was not your average cricketer—he was destined for greatness.
His Test debut came in 2007 against India, a significant leap for any cricketer. Test cricket is known for its grueling demands, both mentally and physically, yet Shakib seemed to thrive in this environment. His poise under pressure and his dual role as both batsman and bowler made him invaluable to the Bangladesh national team. By 2009, he had taken on the responsibility of captaining the Test and ODI squads, underscoring his leadership potential.
Challenges and Setbacks: Despite his rapid ascent, Shakib’s career wasn’t without its hurdles. Like many athletes, he faced his share of injuries. However, the most significant setback came in 2019, when the International Cricket Council (ICC) banned him for a year for failing to report a corrupt approach by a bookmaker. This suspension was a major setback for Shakib and a source of immense disappointment for his fans and teammates. Yet, his response was a testament to his character—he used the time away from the game to regroup and came back in 2020 with renewed energy and focus.
Successes and Achievements: Even with these obstacles, Shakib’s career is filled with remarkable achievements. He has been ranked as the top all-rounder in both Test and ODI cricket, a rare honor that reflects his unique skill set. All-rounders like Shakib, who can both bat and bowl at an elite level, are a rarity in cricket, and his consistent performances have solidified his status as one of the best.
His career is marked by notable records and milestones. Shakib has scored multiple Test centuries and has taken several five-wicket hauls, showcasing his prowess with both the bat and the ball. In ODI cricket, he has achieved the impressive double of over 5,000 runs and more than 250 wickets, underscoring his value to the Bangladesh team. His contributions have been pivotal in some of Bangladesh’s most memorable victories, including landmark wins against top teams like India, Pakistan, and South Africa.
The Fame and Personal Life: Shakib’s impact extends beyond the cricket pitch. In Bangladesh, he is a household name, admired not only for his cricket skills but also for his charm and approachability. In 2012, he married Umme Ahmed Shishir, a Bangladeshi-American, and they have three children: a daughter, Alaina, and two sons, Eyzah and Izhaan. His family is a source of stability and strength, providing the support system he needs to perform at the highest level.
Real Name: Shakib Al Hasan
Date of Birth: March 24, 1987
Birth Place: Magura, Khulna, Bangladesh
Residence: Dhaka, Bangladesh
Profession: Cricketer
Nationality: Bangladeshi
Religion: Islam
Partner: Umme Ahmed Shishir (m. 2012)
Father: Khondoker Masroor Reza
Mother: Shirin Reza
Horoscope: Aries
Age: 37 (as of 2024)
Weight: Approx. 72 kg
Height: Approx. 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm)
Body Type: Athletic
Eye Color: Brown
Hair Color: Black