Despite their victory over Zimbabwe in the second Test match at Chattogram, Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto acknowledged that he is not entirely happy with the team’s results. The captain feels they should have won both games in the two-match Test series, even though Bangladesh was able to tie the series. The 26-year-old claimed that the team’s performance was disappointing and that the top-order hitters needed to contribute more.
It’s not that I’m happy. Over the course of the series, we ought to have performed better in cricket. The first test was not a good test for us. “We should have won this series, even though we made a comeback,” Shanto told reporters.
Batters neeed to step-up for the Sri Lanka series: Najmul Hossain Shanto
Bangladesh are scheduled to tour Sri Lanka in June. The left-handed batter pointed out the importance of that series and called for more impactful performances from both the batting and bowling departments.
“As a captain, I don’t want this kind of scoreboard. If Shadman could score 200, I could hit a 100, or Mushfiqur Rahim scored 150, I would be happier, rather than everyone scoring 40s. Losing a wicket after getting set is not a good sign, as this can’t enhance our confidence. In Sri Lanka, whoever gets set, should score 150-200,” said the left-hander.
“The Sri Lanka series is very significant. I would demand big scores from top order batsmen, rather than getting out on 40s. Usually, pitches in Sri Lanka are very sporting, so the pacers have their job to do. I want to see someone get to 150, 200. That’s the level we need to reach if we want to win consistently overseas,” he added.
Mehidy is performing well in the lower order: Najmul Hossain Shanto
The top-order batter dismissed the idea of promoting Mehidy Hasan high up the order by pointing out the all-rounder’s performance as a bowler and his contributions from the lower middle order.
“If you ask how far up – four or five? That’s very challenging, especially in this format (Test). He’s doing well at six-seven. He knows how important his bowling is, and he’s working hard. We want him to keep contributing the way he is,” he added.
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