Najmul Hossain Shanto Draws Inspiration From Shakib Al Hasan Ahead Of His Captaincy Debut For Bangladesh
Published - 26 Sep 2023, 01:23 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:19 AM
Bangladesh’s stand-in ODI skipper, Najmul Hossain Shanto, opened up about leading the national team during the third ODI against New Zealand. Najmul Hossain Shanto expressed admiration for Shakib Al Hasan’s leadership style, describing him as his favourite cricketer.
Najmul Hossain was appointed as Bangladesh’s 16th ODI captain, taking over from Litton Kumar Das. Shakib Al Hasan was rested before the World Cup and replaced by Litton Das as captain. However, Das requested a break to focus on his batting ahead of the marquee event.
Really Feeling Good For The Opportunity – Najmul Hossain Shanto
Speaking ahead of the third ODI against New Zealand, Najmul Hossain Shanto expressed his excitement about leading Bangladesh. Shanto expressed confidence in the team’s performance to end the series on a positive note.
“It is not a challenge but a matter to enjoy. I am really feeling good for the opportunity and now the way our team is at the moment with the World Cup ahead,” Najmul told reporters.
“To be honest if we can end the game on a good note our team will be in a good shape and if I can end the game on a good note it will be helpful for me as well,” he added.
Bangladesh haven’t lost an ODI series to New Zealand at home since 2010, with their last ODI series defeat to the Black Caps occurring in 2008. The hosts are currently trailing by 1-0 after the first two ODIs in the ongoing three-match series.
Proud Moment For Me And My Family Members – Najmul Hossain Shanto
The 25-year-old expressed his excitement and pride about leading the Bangladesh team in the third ODI. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the present and learning from experienced players like Shakib Al Hasan.
“We cannot think what happened in 2008 (their last ODI series loss to New Zealand at home) and it is important to end the game on a good note tomorrow. I think as a player this is a proud moment for me and for my family members. The board gave this opportunity and I am very excited about it. Hopefully I will enjoy it tomorrow,” he said.
“Shakib bhai has always been my favourite cricketer. As a captain we have seen MS Dhoni and everyone likes him a lot. Personally I like the way Shakib bhai leads the team and handles the players. I had the opportunity to play with him in the BPL and learnt a lot of things from him. The experience I have and what I have learnt from my senior brothers I will try use it.”
The third and final ODI of the series is scheduled to be played at Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka on Tuesday, September 26.
Also read: Najmul Hossain Shanto Appointed As Bangladesh Skipper For 3rd ODI Against New Zealand
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