Bangladesh’s Najmul Hossain Shanto etched his name into the cricketing history with a scintillating century on his Test captaincy debut against New Zealand in Sylhet. The left-handed batter joined an exclusive league of legends, becoming the 32nd player to achieve this prestigious feat, standing shoulder to shoulder with luminaries like Virat Kohli, Joe Root, Steve Smith, and Shivnarine Chanderpaul.

Regarded as one of Bangladesh’s most promising talents, Shanto’s meteoric rise in the cricketing realm has been a sight to behold over the past year. His appointment as captain for the New Zealand series marked a pivotal moment in his career, and he seized the opportunity with aplomb, dazzling spectators with a commanding century in the second innings of the opening Test.

His reputation for consistency precedes him, having previously notched up centuries in both innings against Afghanistan earlier in the year. His fourth Test century against New Zealand was a testament to his resilience, achieved amidst the challenges of two runouts, the final one involving Mominul Islam, who contributed a crucial 40 runs to the cause.

Shanto keeps New Zealand bowlers in check on Day 3

In the initial innings of the match, Shanto displayed his flair with a brisk 37 off just 35 deliveries. However, the eagerness to convert it into a substantial score fell short, leaving Bangladesh with a slender seven-run deficit by the innings close. His entry in the second innings at number 3, following the dismissal of the first wicket at 23, showcased his seamless adaptation and a blend of cautious play and well-timed aggression.

Partnering with Mominul Haque and later, Mushfiqur Rahim, he orchestrated a formidable stand. Despite Mominul’s departure after a commendable 40, the southpaw’s composure remained unwavering. His partnership with Rahim propelled Bangladesh to conclude the day at 212-3, boasting a lead of 205 runs heading into the crucial fourth day of the Test match. The match stands at an equilibrium, poised for a gripping finale as the contest unfolds further.

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) have named Najmul Hossain Shanto as the captain for the white-ball series against New Zealand. Bangladesh will travel to New Zealand for playing three ODIs and three T20Is after their ongoing red-ball series at home. 

The board announced two different squads for the ODI and T20I series, and despite the return of Litton Das, Shanto was selected as the skipper for the white-ball games, with Mehidy Hasan Miraz as the deputy.

Bangladesh squad (ODI Series): Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Anamul Haque Bijoy, Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, Liton Das, Afif Hossain, Soumya Sarkar, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (vice-capt), Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Hasan Mahmud, Rishad Hossain and Rakibul Hasan

Bangladesh squad (T20I Series): Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Liton Das, Rony Talukdar, Tawhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, Afif Hossain Dhrubo, Soumya Sarkar, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (vice-capt), Mahedi Hasan, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud, Rishad Hossain, Tanvir Islam and Tanzim Hasan Sakib

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