Bangladesh Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto. File Photo

DHAKA, April 19, 2025 (BSS)- Bangladesh Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto
admitted the inconsistency as a batting group, saying that they are looking
for a turnaround in the two-match series opening Test against Zimbabwe
tomorrow (Sunday) at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
 
"There is no denying the fact that our batting isn't going well. But we are
not looking back. Everyone will begin afresh as we play the first Test
against Zimbabwe tomorrow," Shanto told the reporters in Sylhet today.
 
"Scoring 30-40 runs is not acceptable in this format. We are looking to
prolong our innings."

We worked on that and will try more. Of course the top order isn't
performing, but they are trying. We have to give them enough chances to be
ready," he said.

Bangladesh won all three of its 10 Tests last year-all of which were at
abroad. They failed to register any victory at home.
 
Shanto said Sylhet Test marks the beginning of a new cycle as he hopes to
instill a positive and fearless approach.
 
"We didn't play well at home last year. We couldn't execute the plans we had.
This time, I hope we bring results at home," he said.

The two-Test series begins tomorrow with the Sylhet Test, which is the first
against Zimbabwe in almost four years.

Shanto emphasized on a new start, "Since last year, there have been
discussions about how we can create a culture in the Test team or how we want
to play the game."

"After the new coach comes, he has a plan, how he actually wants to take the
team forward, which he has already shared with the cricketers."

Shanto added: "Besides, those of us who are playing, we had an input. I hope
that in the five-six Test matches this year, you will see something new."

He revealed that the players had never played selfishly as they always come
into any match with an aim to win.

"As a captain, what I think is that we play to win every match. None of us
have any desire to play selfish cricket here," he said.

"As I said earlier, we will try something new and it will start from
tomorrow. The kind of mentality and preparation that is required for that,
the cricketers are taking it," the Captain continued.

He was determined to bring out something new in body language as well, "No
matter what the situation is, we need to have a winning mentality. Just as
there needs to be runs on the board to take 20 wickets, we should be able to
give those runs to the batting unit - these issues have been discussed."

"Besides, no matter what the situation is, we need to bring body language
into the fore...." Shanto reminded the West Indies Test that how aggressive
body language gave them the edge.

"When we won against the West Indies, everyone's body language was aggressive
and aggressive to win," he said.

"Those things are important. We have to do those things consistently in every
match. Our cricketers, who are there, will try to pull these things," the
skipper concluded.