Najmul Hossain Shanto has called for greater unity and cooperation among cricket’s decision-makers in Bangladesh, warning that instability at various levels of the domestic game is harming the sport.
The comments came after Shanto led Rajshahi Warriors to the Bangladesh Premier League title, defeating Chattogram Royals in the final of the tournament’s 12th edition. While celebrating the championship, the Rajshahi captain addressed the growing criticism and tension surrounding club and lower-division cricket in the country.
“As a player, I want to say one thing,” Shanto said. “Over the last one or two years, the environment outside the field has been damaging our cricket a lot. I would request those who are responsible to work together so that cricket can continue properly. Matches may be happening, but it is important to think about how the game can be run in a better way.”
Shanto acknowledged that players are currently operating amid uncertainty about schedules and competitions. “Right now, everyone is unsure about what will happen,” he said. “Everyone has responsibilities in their own place. Regular, competitive cricket on the field is essential.”
With Bangladesh’s participation in the upcoming men’s T20 World Cup appearing unlikely, Shanto urged the Bangladesh Cricket Board to consider organising alternative competitions during that period. He also highlighted concerns around Dhaka league cricket, which has faced sustained criticism in recent seasons.
“There is a lot of criticism around Dhaka cricket as well,” he said. “I would request that this season is organised better than previous ones. If we do not play in the World Cup, then I would ask the board to arrange another good-quality tournament so that everyone gets the chance to play. It is important that off-field issues are resolved so that on-field cricket can continue properly.”
Shanto also spoke briefly about a recent meeting between national team players and youth and sports adviser Asif Nazrul, held amid debate over Bangladesh travelling to India for the World Cup. He described the meeting as positive, while stopping short of offering further detail.
“It was definitely good that we were invited,” Shanto said. “There were discussions and they were healthy discussions. As players, we are happy that we were called. Whether it should have happened earlier is difficult for me to say, because I was not part of the team involved and there was no communication with me.”
Fresh from leading Rajshahi to the BPL trophy, Shanto’s remarks reflected both relief at success on the field and concern about the broader direction of Bangladeshi cricket, particularly the need for stability and meaningful competition at domestic level.
