Shanto Surprises Journalists, Then Opens Up About Bangladesh’s Goal for Australia Tour

Bangladesh Test captain Najmul Hossain Shanto created a light-hearted moment ahead of the Australia series by asking journalists about their expectations instead of answering questions first.

Entering the press conference with a smile after training, Shanto said:

“You have been covering cricket for many years. What are your expectations for this series? How do you think Bangladesh will perform?”

When one journalist replied, “Play good cricket,” Shanto joked:

“Would you have liked it if I had given that answer?”

Another journalist said Bangladesh would do well if they could at least secure a draw, prompting laughter from the captain.

Shanto then turned serious and described the tour as a special opportunity, with Bangladesh preparing to play a Test series in Australia after nearly 23 years.

“Our main goal is to play good cricket and earn respect. We play every match to win, but what matters most is how much of a challenge we can give Australia,” he said.

Despite injuries to Nahid Rana, Shoriful Islam and Litton Das, Shanto expressed full confidence in the squad travelling to Australia, adding that the focus is on performing well as a group and believing in one another.