In the heart of Dhaka, Bangladesh’s Test skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto has publicly challenged the Bangladesh Cricket Board to restore order and continuity to the nation’s beloved cricket. His comments, delivered post a Bangladesh Premier League game, come at a pivotal moment as the country’s T20 World Cup involvement teeters on the brink due to administrative standoffs.
‘Off-field issues have crippled cricket in recent years,’ Shanto remarked candidly during the media interaction. He implored board officials to collaborate on resolutions that prioritize the game’s survival. ‘Strong administration and defined strategies are non-negotiable; otherwise, endless doubts will harm players and the sport alike,’ he added.
Shanto proposed a contingency plan: if Bangladesh skips the World Cup, invest in top-tier domestic competitions. Drawing from past experiences, he advocated for elevated standards in events like the Dhaka league, ensuring seamless execution compared to prior flawed attempts.
Warning against letting politics bleed into performance, Shanto highlighted how internal conflicts could derail competitiveness and long-term development. The backdrop is grim—the BCB’s decision to boycott the 2026 T20 World Cup after ICC rejected venue changes from India to Sri Lanka. This could see Scotland step in, alongside ICC sanctions. Shanto’s clarion call reflects widespread frustration, pushing for reforms to revive Bangladesh cricket’s momentum.