Shakib Al Hasan will be representing Dubai Capitals in the 2025 edition of the Global Super League. The news of the star all-rounder's incoming was announced by the franchise on social media on Sunday, July 6. He has been acquired as a replacement of Keshav Maharaj, who underwent an injury during the recently-concluded first Test between Zimbabwe and South Africa in Bulawayo, and will not be able to take part in the upcoming tournament.

There were quite a few speculations that Shakib would be retained by Rangpur Riders for GSL 2025. However, it was later clarified by the team management through an official statement that he could not be kept within the side because of the volatile political situation back in Bangladesh, which involved Shakib too.

The Bangladeshi cricketer last played in the 2025 edition of the Pakistan Super League for Lahore Qalandars. He took part as a substitute player there. The three matches he played in the PSL came after a six-month interval of him playing last. Notably, the left-arm spin of Shakib had been suspended due to an illegitimate bowling action and other issues, which was later cleared.

Shakib's previous franchise, Rangpur, led by Nurul Hasan won the inaugural edition of the GSL. Apart from Rangpur and Dubai, the three other sides which will take part in the five-team tournament are Hobart Hurricanes (from Big Bash League), hosts Guyana Amazon Warriors (from Caribbean Premier League), and Central Districts (from Super Smash). 

GSL 2025 is scheduled to kickstart proceedings on Thursday, July 10. The tournament opener will be played between Dubai Capitals and Central Districts. All the matches will be played at the Providence Stadium in Guyana. The format of the tournament is such that each team will play the other once, and the teams ending up in the top-two spots will square off in the summit clash.

Shakib, who has already taken retirement from Tests and T20Is, last played an ODI for Bangladesh in November 2023 at the Cricket World Cup in India. The seasoned 38-year-old all-rounder has not been considered in the 50-over side since then.