Bangladesh State Minister for Youth and Sports Aminul Haque has said there is no longer any scope for Shakib Al Hasan to return to the country through the normal process because of his political stance and recent public appearance alongside former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The minister made the remarks after Shakib participated in an online press conference hosted by Hasina, who announced her intention to return to Bangladesh in December.

Shakib, a former Member of Parliament for the now-banned Awami League and one of Bangladesh's greatest cricketers, has remained outside the country since before the political upheaval of August 2024. He is currently playing in Sri Lanka's Premier League.

According to the United Nations, around 1,400 people were killed during the July 2024 uprising. Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India following the mass movement, has since been sentenced to death over the killings.

Shakib's appearance at Hasina's recent virtual press conference has reignited debate over his political position. In a separate interview with Reuters, the all-rounder said he is willing to return to Bangladesh and face legal proceedings if the government guarantees his safety.

Responding to those comments, Aminul Haque said the government had previously been willing to take a flexible approach regarding Shakib's return.

"We were looking at the matter with considerable flexibility and tolerance," the minister said. "But after his participation in Sheikh Hasina's press conference, I don't think there is any room to consider it in that way anymore."

Shakib is an accused in a murder case related to the July uprising. Referring to both the legal case and Shakib's current political position, the minister said the former Bangladesh captain would no longer be able to return through any special or normal arrangement.

"He stood on the stage of an autocratic leader, so I don't think there is any opportunity for him to return in that manner," Aminul said. "As a cricketer, we had been thinking differently and were being flexible. That opportunity no longer exists. If he wants to return, he must do so through the legal process."

The minister's comments come amid growing speculation over Shakib's future, both in Bangladesh and in international cricket, as the veteran all-rounder continues to play franchise cricket overseas while facing ongoing legal and political challenges at home.