Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto is determined to build on the team’s newfound confidence from their recent historic Test series win over Pakistan as they prepare for their upcoming matches. The Bangladeshi team achieved a landmark 2-0 series victory against Pakistan, marking their first-ever Test wins on Pakistani soil. This success is significant as it represents just the third overseas Test series win in Bangladesh’s 24-year Test history.
Reflecting on their triumph, Najmul Hossain Shanto highlighted the role of belief in overcoming their past failures. The series win was a breakthrough for Bangladesh, who had previously never managed to secure a victory against Pakistan in Test matches. This achievement has not only boosted the team’s morale but also provided a valuable reference point for future challenges. “One word: belief. It feels great when you are winning. It is important to enjoy these moments,” Shanto told ESPNCricinfo. He emphasized that such moments are rare and pivotal for players looking for motivation and confidence in their careers. “Now we have one. We know that we have the ability to win abroad,” he added.
With their confidence riding high, Bangladesh is now gearing up to face India in a two-match Test series starting on September 19. Despite Bangladesh’s challenging history against India, who they have never beaten in Test matches, Najmul Hossain Shanto is optimistic about his team’s prospects. Bangladesh has lost 11 out of the 13 Test matches played against India, with two matches ending in a draw. However, the close contest in the last Test between the two teams, played in Dhaka in December 2022, has given Bangladesh hope. In that match, India narrowly escaped defeat, thanks to a resilient partnership between Ravichandran Ashwin and Shreyas Iyer, who led India to a four-wicket victory.
Najmul Hossain Shanto’s remarks underscore a renewed sense of belief and determination within the team. “The next time we play, I don’t know about the result, but we will surely have the belief that we can win,” he said. This attitude reflects a broader shift in Bangladesh’s approach to international cricket, driven by their recent success and a commitment to break new ground. As the team prepares for the series against India, they are hopeful that their recent achievements will translate into further success on the field.
