'Everyone is in a state of uncertainty', says Shanto after BPL triumph

Bangladesh Test captain Najmul Hossain Shanto capped off an impressive Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) campaign by leading Rajshahi Warriors to the title with a 63-run victory over Chattogram Royals in the final of the tournament in Mirpur on Friday.

Yet, amid the glitter of the BPL trophy celebrations, Bangladesh’s World Cup fate, and the future of domestic cricket, remains uncertain.

Domestic leagues have also been hit by instability in recent times, with teams opting out of the First Division League, while the fate of the Dhaka Premier League appears uncertain as well. Against this backdrop, Shanto admitted that he does not know when he will next take the field.

Not part of the World Cup squad, the Rajshahi captain conceded in the post-match press conference that the uncertainty surrounding domestic cricket is a cause for concern.

“As a player, there is definitely some worry about the future because we face uncertainty. It is not just me; everyone is in a state of uncertainty. I would request those in charge, the cricket board and others, to come to a compromise [on domestic club cricket] so that cricket can continue smoothly. If we do not go to the World Cup, I request that the Dhaka League be organized even more beautifully so players don't have to sit idle for long periods,” he said, addressing the uncertainty surrounding domestic club cricket.

Asked at the very end of the press conference about when his next match might be, Shanto paused for a moment before wearing a puzzled look.

“No, I do not know,” he said.

The Rajshahi captain also heaped praise on Tanzid Hasan Tamim, who struck a century in the BPL final to become only the third player to achieve the feat, after Chris Gayle and Tamim Iqbal.

“Tamim’s innings was crucial. When you get an innings like that in a final, it inspires the whole team and builds confidence. Tamim is a great cricketer; he wasn't getting starts earlier in the tournament, but he made an impact in the final few innings. I told him to win the match for me at the right time, and thankfully, he played a great innings exactly when it mattered,” he said.

Shanto had lifted the BPL trophy with Barishal last year, but this triumph was different, as he led from the front not only as captain but also as a batter. In 13 matches, the left-hander scored 355 runs -- the fourth-highest in the tournament -- at a strike-rate of 135.49 and an average of 29.58.

“Being a champion always feels good; I enjoyed it last year as well. However, it feels even better when you can contribute directly. I feel I was able to do that this year, both as a player and as a captain, so this is an extra source of happiness. Since this was my first BPL as a captain, this victory is very special,” he said, reflecting on the difference from last season.