'Hope that he will do something special in this series' - Najmul Hossain Shanto unfazed by off-field issues

In the middle of all the political turbulence in Bangladesh, the men's national cricket team is preparing for a two-match Test series against Pakistan. 

The recent political unrest saw the resignation of the Prime Minister and a change in the government. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto emphasised that his team is not worried about the off-field disturbances and is fully prepared to put up a strong performance on the field.

The political crisis back home has had a significant impact on the nation, with the Women’s T20 World Cup, which was originally scheduled to be hosted in the country, now been shifted to UAE. Despite the uncertainty, the men’s cricket team is playing its first tour in two months, with two crucial Test matches against Pakistan as part of the World Test Championship. 

One of the notable aspects of the political changes in Bangladesh is the end of Shakib Al Hasan's tenure as a Member of Parliament, following the fall of the government. However, Shakib, one of Bangladesh’s most experienced and valuable players, has chosen to remain silent on his political future, instead dedicating himself entirely to the game.

"Shakib bhai is in a good shape - in practice and preparation. He has the desire to do well. He has showed his commitment in every practice session. He is a professional cricketer. We all treat him as a cricketer. He [has] played this game for so long that he knows his role; he knows how to prepare himself. I am not thinking about his political career. I hope that he will do something special in this series," Shanto said in the pre-match press conference. 

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We are not looking to do anything extra: Najmul Hossain Shanto

Shakib’s role as an all-rounder is crucial for the Bengal Tigers, and his experience is expected to be a significant asset in the series. Alongside him, Mehidy Hasan Miraz is another key player, who is likely to boost the team’s batting depth. Shanto hinted at the possibility of pacer Nahid Rana making the playing XI.

Also read: Don't think political unrest in Bangladesh will affect Shakib Al Hasan's focus, he's a professional cricketer: Najmul Hossain Shanto

Shanto also acknowledged the challenges they have faced with their batting but expressed confidence in the preparation and potential of the squad. "We are not looking to do anything extra, but it is true that we haven't been batting well in the last few months. We didn't go well in our last Test series [against Sri Lanka, in March-April]. Having said that, I think we are well prepared for this Test series. The players have used the opportunities to prepare properly. They believe that we can do better with the bat," he concluded.