Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto expressed confidence as his team prepares for the first Test against India in Chennai, following their recent 2-0 victory over Pakistan. The two-match Test series is set to begin on Thursday, followed by three T20Is.
During a pre-departure press conference in Dhaka, Shanto acknowledged the challenge of playing India but highlighted that the success against Pakistan has given the team a morale boost. He mentioned that the entire country shares this renewed confidence. Shanto said the team aims to win both Tests but stressed the importance of sticking to their game plan and maintaining focus. If they execute their roles effectively, he believes a positive outcome is possible.
Though India ranks higher, Shanto remains optimistic, pointing out Bangladesh’s recent performances. He emphasised the need to play well for all five days and push for a result in the final session of the match, when anything could happen. Shanto highlighted the opportunity to secure Bangladesh’s first-ever Test win in India but cautioned against looking too far ahead, focusing instead on playing to the team’s strengths.
Bangladesh’s recent victories in Pakistan showcased an all-around team effort. Their fast bowlers took all ten wickets in Pakistan’s second innings of the second Test—a first for Bangladesh. Shanto acknowledged that while Bangladesh’s pace attack may lack India’s experience, their spinners—Shakib Al Hasan, Taijul Islam, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz—are on par with India’s.
He further stated that Bangladesh’s bowlers, both pacers and spinners, are in a strong position and capable of performing in any conditions. Shanto highlighted that the team must work together to make an impact, with contributions needed from the entire lineup—batters, pacers, and spinners alike.
Bangladesh’s batting has also seen improvement, especially after a difficult period over the past year. In the first Test against Pakistan, Mushfiqur Rahim's 191 and contributions from other top-order batters signalled a return to form. Despite some struggles in the second Test, Litton Das hit his fourth Test century, and Mehidy added another fifty to his tally.
Although Shanto and Shakib struggled to make big scores in Pakistan, the captain remains focused on the team’s success. Shanto, who was in excellent form in 2023, acknowledged his dip this year but expressed confidence in his preparation for the upcoming series. He also expressed optimism about Shakib’s performance, especially given his strong bowling form, even though Shakib’s batting hasn't been as consistent.
Shanto’s primary goal remains to contribute to the team’s victory as a batter. He highlighted that Shakib, fresh off a successful bowling stint for Surrey, would join the squad directly from London.
Before the Pakistan series, BCB president Faruque Ahmed had expressed reservations about head coach Chandika Hathurusinghe, though his stance has reportedly softened. Additionally, Shanto announced that the team would donate a portion of their bonus from the Pakistan series win to support flood victims and those affected by recent protests.
Ahmed confirmed the bonus amount to be BDT 3.2 crore (approximately $270,000) and stated that part of it would go to the chief advisor’s relief fund for those affected by floods.