Shanto urges clarity, stability for Bangladesh cricket as BPL concludes

Bangla Press Desk: Rajshahi Warriors captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, fresh off leading his team to the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) title, has called for clearer planning and greater stability in Bangladesh cricket, especially amid uncertainty surrounding the national team’s participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Speaking to reporters after the BPL final, Shanto acknowledged that the looming uncertainty naturally occupies players’ minds.

When asked about the future schedule, Shanto admitted he has no idea what lies ahead. “No,” he said at the post-match press conference. When asked if this had ever happened in his career, he replied, “No.”

On another question regarding the situation, Shanto explained the uncertainty he is facing. “Of course, there is some concern. None of us know what the future holds. As a player, I am thinking about it. There is no denying that,” he said.

When asked what exactly he was thinking, Shanto joked, “Then it will be a long night.”

Shanto, who is also one of the leaders of Cricketers Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB), emphasized that the key focus should be on the process rather than the uncertainty.

“Over the last one to two years, the way cricket has been managed, especially abroad, has really hampered our development. I request that those in charge, whether in the board or outside, work together to make cricket run smoothly. By ‘run smoothly,’ I mean not just games being played, but conducting the sport in an organised, regular, and competitive manner,” he said.

Shanto also highlighted the importance of domestic cricket in maintaining players’ form, particularly if Bangladesh misses the World Cup.

“If we don’t participate in the World Cup, Dhaka League becomes even more important. Players have already been sitting out for a long time, so it’s crucial that the league is conducted more attractively and professionally this time. I hope the board ensures a better tournament for players so they have opportunities to play and maintain their skills,” he said.

On a recent meeting with the sports ministry over World Cup uncertainty, Shanto remained diplomatic but appreciative. “It was good that we were invited. There was a healthy conversation, and as players, we are at least happy that our voices were heard. Beyond that, I cannot go into details.”