Shakib Al Hasan Joins Dubai Capitals for GSL 2025, Replaces Injured Keshav Maharaj

Ahead of the second Global Super League (GSL 2025) season, which begins in Guyana on July 10, Shakib Al Hasan, an excellent all-around player, has joined the Dubai Capitals, just as fans were wondering where he would next play. The poster boy for Bangladesh is ready to assume new colours and give the Dubai Capitals his all.

On Sunday, July 6, the team took to social media to announce the arrival of the star all-rounder. He was brought in to replace Keshav Maharaj, who sustained an injury during the just-finished first Test match between South Africa and Zimbabwe in Bulawayo and will not be able to play in the forthcoming competition.

Many people were speculating that the Rangpur Riders would keep Shakib for the 2025 GSL. The team management then stated in an official statement that he could not be kept on the side due to the unstable political situation in Bangladesh, which also affected Shakib.

Shakib Al Hasan Joins Dubai Capitals:

Simply World-Class! ✨

Shakib Al Hasan is ready to light up GSLT20! #GSLT20#GlobalSuperLeague#DubaiCapitalspic.twitter.com/iW0K7HGHLv

— Global Super League (@gslt20) July 6, 2025

The Capitals are poised to capitalise, even though his former team, the Rangpur Riders, may have left a Shakib-sized void on their roster. While his old team, the Rangpur Riders, are entering the competition without their superstar, Shakib Al Hasan, he is preparing for a new beginning. Rangpur played it safe, even though they had originally intended to bring him back. For background, Shakib hasn't been back in Bangladesh since the student-led demonstrations there last year. The Riders' management chose not to stir things up even if there isn't a formal prohibition or instruction against selecting him.

Without a doubt, Shakib's cricket skills are unquestionable. He is still a box office success at this point in his career. With bat or ball, he has the nous, the big-match attitude, and the capacity to completely change games. Expect fireworks when the southpaw wears the Dubai red, even though he may not be wearing the Rangpur blue this year.

No second chances, no semifinals. Each team only plays four games, and the top two advance directly to the July 18 final. Even though the GSL is brief and to the point, it will be quite powerful given the drama that is developing.

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