‘Not really happy with this win’ – Shanto after Bangladesh’s series-levelling win over Zimbabwe

The Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto admitted that he is not too pleased with the team’s performance even after their victory over Zimbabwe in the second Test in Chattogram. Bangladesh managed to level the two-match Test series, but the skipper believes it was a series they should have won both the games. The 26-year-old expressed disappointment over the team’s performance and insisted on the need for stronger contributions from the top-order batters.

“I’m not really happy. If you look at the whole series, we should have played better cricket. We didn’t perform well in the first Test. Although we made a comeback, this is a series we should have won,” Shanto told reporters.

Also read: Bangladesh escape home embarrassment to Zimbabwe as Mehidy Hasan Miraz shines

Batters neeed to step-up for the Sri Lanka series: Shanto

Bangladesh are scheduled to tour Sri Lanka in June. The left-handed batter pointed out the importance of that series and called for more impactful performances from both the batting and bowling departments.

“As a captain, I don’t want this kind of scoreboard. If Shadman could score 200, I could hit a 100, or Mushfiqur Rahim scored 150, I would be happier, rather than everyone scoring 40s. Losing a wicket after getting set is not a good sign, as this can’t enhance our confidence. In Sri Lanka, whoever gets set, should score 150-200,” said the left-hander.

“The Sri Lanka series is very significant. I would demand big scores from top order batsmen, rather than getting out on 40s. Usually, pitches in Sri Lanka are very sporting, so the pacers have their job to do. I want to see someone get to 150, 200. That’s the level we need to reach if we want to win consistently overseas,” he added.

Mehidy is performing well in the lower order: Shanto

The top-order batter dismissed the idea of promoting Mehidy Hasan high up the order by pointing out the all-rounder’s performance as a bowler and his contributions from the lower middle order.

“If you ask how far up – four or five? That’s very challenging, especially in this format (Test). He’s doing well at six-seven. He knows how important his bowling is, and he’s working hard. We want him to keep contributing the way he is,” he added.

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