BPL-winning captain Najmul Hossain Shanto points 'fear' in Bangladesh's future

Najmul Hossain Shanto with the BPL trophy [Source: X]Rajshahi Warriors captain Najmul Hossain Shanto capped off an impressive Bangladesh Premier League campaign by leading his side to the title with a commanding 63-run win over Chattogram Royals in the tournament final. However, Najmul Hossain Shanto, who also captains Bangladesh in Test cricket, went beyond the victory to speak about Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup 2026 prospects and the future of domestic cricket in the country. Shanto speaks of domestic cricket future in Bangladesh Although Shanto is not part of Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup 2026 plans, he openly spoke about the indecisive approach of the Bangladesh Cricket Board and broader concerns surrounding domestic cricket. “As a player, there is definitely some worry about the future because we face uncertainty. It is not just me; everyone is in a state of uncertainty. I would request those in charge, the cricket board and others, to come to a compromise [on domestic club cricket] so that cricket can continue smoothly,” Shanto said in the post-match press conference. He also addressed the World Cup scenario, stressing the need for more Dhaka League cricket if the World Cup pathway remains unclear. “If we do not go to the World Cup, I request that the Dhaka League be organized even more beautifully so players don't have to sit idle for long periods,” Shanto added, addressing the uncertainty surrounding domestic club cricket. Shanto rejoices first BPL win as a captain Speaking about the Bangladesh Premier League triumph, Shanto expressed special joy over the achievement, as it marked his maiden stint as a captain in the BPL. “Being a champion always feels good; I enjoyed it last year as well. However, it feels even better when you can contribute directly. I feel I was able to do that this year, both as a player and as a captain, so this is an extra source of happiness. Since this was my first BPL as a captain, this victory is very special,” he said, reflecting on the difference from last season. Shanto also praised Tanzid Hasan Sakib who hit a blistering century in the BPL final to etch his name into the record books of the league. “Tamim’s innings was crucial. When you get an innings like that in a final, it inspires the whole team and builds confidence. Tamim is a great cricketer; he wasn't getting starts earlier in the tournament, but he made an impact in the final few innings. I told him to win the match for me at the right time, and thankfully, he played a great innings exactly when it mattered,” he said. Najmul Hossain Shanto led with the bat in BPL 2025-26Along with his leadership, Najmul Hossain Shanto was equally dominant with the bat throughout the tournament. Playing for Rajshahi, he scored 355 runs from 13 matches, averaging 29.58 at a strike rate of 135.50. His standout performances included a 60-ball 101 in the opening match against Sylhet Titans, a 31 off 41 balls against Rangpur Riders, and a blistering 76 off 42 balls once again against Rangpur. Rajshahi Warriors’ road to the title was largely smooth, as they won eight of their 10 group-stage matches. In Qualifier 1, they defeated Chattogram Royals to book a place in the final, where they once again outplayed the Royals by defending a total of 174 runs. Binura Fernando and Hasan Murad led the bowling effort with 4 and 3 wickets respectively, doing most of the damage to seal a comfortable victory.