Najmul Shanto Brings Up 4th ODI Hundred- Where Does He Stand Among Bangladesh's Greats?

Najmul Hossain Shanto [Source: AFP]

Najmul Shanto continued his impressive run of form with a brilliant century against New Zealand in the third ODI of the ongoing three-match series on Thursday, April 23, at the Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium in Chattogram. 

Earlier, he had already shown good touch with a half-century in the previous match, and he carried that confidence into this game.

To begin with, Bangladesh were asked to bat first, and the innings began on a disappointing note. The team lost two wickets very quickly as William O’Rourke delivered a strong opening spell. Saif Hassan was dismissed without scoring, and Tanzid Hassan managed only one run. 

Najmul Shanto and Litton Das lead the recovery

Soon after, Soumya Sarkar tried to stabilize the innings and showed some intent. However, he was dismissed for 18. As a result, Bangladesh found themselves under pressure early in the innings.

At number three, Najmul Shanto came in and joined Litton Das at the crease. Together, they worked patiently to rebuild the innings. 

Notably, their partnership grew steadily, and both batters reached well-deserved half-centuries. This stand helped Bangladesh recover from the early setbacks and put the team in a stronger position.

Eventually, New Zealand managed to break this important partnership of 160 runs. Jayden Lennox dismissed Litton Das for 76 in the 39th over.

Najmul Shanto reaches his fourth ODI century

After Das got out, Towhid Hridoy joined Najmul Shanto at the crease. Notably, the former ODI captain continued to play confidently and reached his fourth ODI century in 114 balls. His innings showed control, patience, and good shot selection.

It is important to note that with this blistering century, Shanto now has four hundreds and 11 half-centuries in 64 ODIs. He has scored 1,914 runs at an average of 32.44, along with a strike rate of 78.12.

Also Read: Just-Retired Bangladesh Star Blames RCB Personnel For His Life’s Biggest Regret

Where does Najmul Shanto stand among Bangladesh’s greats

Notably, Shanto’s fourth ODI century places him among the notable batters of Bangladesh cricket. He is now close to some of the country’s established names. Litton Das stands just ahead with five centuries in 100 innings, while Shanto has reached four in significantly fewer innings.

At the top of the list is Tamim Iqbal, who has scored 14 centuries in 240 innings. Next comes Shakib Al Hasan with nine centuries in 234 innings. Mushfiqur Rahim also has nine centuries, sharing the second position. Litton Das holds the fourth spot, followed closely by Shanto.

Most hundreds for Bangladesh in ODIs:

In addition, Najmul Shanto became the sixth Bangladesh batter to score an ODI century against New Zealand.

Bangladesh finished with 265/8

After completing his century, Najmul Shanto helped Bangladesh cross the 220-run mark along with Towhid Hridoy. However, he was dismissed for 105 off 119 balls, which included nine fours and two sixes.

Meanwhile, Hridoy remained unbeaten on 33, while captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz contributed 22 runs. Despite these efforts, Bangladesh lost several wickets towards the end, which limited their total.

William O’Rourke was the standout bowler for New Zealand, taking three wickets for 32 runs in seven overs. Ben Lister and Jayden Lennox picked up two wickets each, while Dean Foxcroft added one to his name.

Also Read: CSK Sign MI-Reject To Confirm Ayush Mhatre IPL 2026 Replacement