- June 22, 2025
The spotlight in Bangladeshi cricket tends to shift toward happenings beyond the boundary. Captaincy changes, political shifts and motions, boardroom power plays all seem to arrive almost as consistently as dismissals. However, Najmul Hossain Shanto simply went about his business quietly and excellently.
When the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) blindsided him by stripping him of the ODI captaincy moments before the Sri Lanka tour, Shanto could have sulked, berated the board, or let the pressure of such a moment consume him. Instead, he opted for the best possible outcome and scored runs. Loads of runs.
A Captaincy Blow That Could’ve Crushed Confidence
Let’s face it — losing your captaincy just before a major tour is not exactly the type of pickup news that encourages you. Still early in his captaincy career with just 13 ODIs, Shanto was gradually coming into his own. There was some level of expectation that he would be supported long term, particularly, as he stated himself, he needed stability with the leadership. And then, without warning, the BCB replaced him with Mehidy Hasan Miraz.
Shanto may have walked into the Galle Test with confidence shaken. However, he entered the fray with a blueprint to follow.
He focused on the things he could control: his technique, his mindset, and how he could contribute to the team. It was amazing to see focus and resolve. Scoring two centuries in a Test match is one thing, but moreover, with that personal and professional pressure.
The Technical Tweaks Behind Shanto’s Revival
Shanto’s return to form was not just mental; it was tactical. He had made several clear technical changes before the tour. He had worked to become a stronger defender, worked on his footwork, and also ensured he was scoring singles to keep the scoreboard ticking over. His straight drives became a prominent feature and established the foundations for his aggressive shots later in his innings.
And the best part? Shanto did not get ahead of himself after his centuries. He knows he has more to prove and did not over-celebrate. His calm and understated way of going about his business stood out in an era of cricket bureaucracy. He sent a strong signal; he was in it to play cricket, not indulge in games.
Yes, he benefited from a bit of luck — having been dropped on two occasions during his second innings — but luck favours the brave, and through hard work, Shanto earned his luck.
Steering Through Bangladesh Cricket’s Stormy Seas
Throughout it all, Bangladesh cricket remains a story in motion, always evolving. Stability seems elusive with the BCB presidential race looming on the horizon. Decisions can change overnight, based on who is behind the desk. For the likes of Shanto, job security is fragile.
However, he has elected not to become bogged down by the politics. He is keeping it simple, focusing on his development, and leading (informally) by example. That sort of perspective is a breath of fresh air for a team needing cold heads.
His display in Galle wasn’t solely about the runs he scored. It was a message — a calm but emphatic reminder that even when the cricketing world around you is absolutely upside down, class and composure can still shine through.
Rather than respond to his demotion with a chat, Shanto responded with his bat. Considering the highly volatile cricketing system in Bangladesh, that is a win in itself. The only question remains whether BCB will now back him in repair mode for the long term, or are they simply going to repeat some variation of a past cycle of chaos? Only time will tell.
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