Najmul Hossain Shanto, a talented left-handed batsman and emerging cricket player from Bangladesh, has made headlines with his impressive performances both at the domestic level and on the international stage. Born on March 31, 1998, in Rajshahi, Bangladesh, Shanto’s cricketing journey began in an unconventional manner.
Shanto’s incredible skills were first noticed during a school one-day match in Rajshahi, where he showcased his immense potential by scoring a magnificent double-century. Impressed by his remarkable talent, scouts for the Bangladesh Under-17 team wasted no time in recruiting him to represent the national side at the age-group level. Subsequently, in 2013, Shanto earned a well-deserved promotion to the Bangladesh Under-19 squad and participated in two World Cups in 2014 and 2016.
In November 2014, Shanto donned his first-class cap for the Rajshahi division, marking his debut in the longer format of the game. The following year, he notched his maiden century in first-class cricket, further cementing his reputation as a rising star within the cricketing fraternity. Continuing his upward trajectory, Shanto participated in the 2016 Dhaka Premier League, where he faced stiff competition at the domestic level. Undeterred by the challenge, he accumulated an impressive tally of 537 runs at an average of 41.30, showcasing his prowess with the bat.
However, it was Shanto’s outstanding performance in the 2016 Under-19 World Cup that truly caught the attention of the national selectors. Amassing a staggering 259 runs at an impressive average of 64.75, Shanto’s consistent displays of skill and determination prompted the selectors to include him in the senior team’s training camp in Sydney ahead of their tour of New Zealand in the 2016-17 season.
Fate presented a golden opportunity for Shanto to prove himself when Mominul Haque suffered a rib injury, ruling him out of the second Test match against New Zealand in Christchurch. As a result, Shanto was given the chance to represent his country on the grand stage, becoming the 84th cricketer from Bangladesh to play Test cricket. Despite the pressure and the weight of expectations, Shanto exhibited composure and resilience, leaving an indelible mark on the field.
Shanto’s journey to international cricket has not been without its fair share of challenges, but his determination, unwavering focus, and natural talent have propelled him forward. As he continues to cultivate his skills and gain more experience, Shanto aims to become a vital pillar in Bangladesh’s cricketing success.
Najmul Hossain Shanto’s career has been marked by significant achievements at a young age, and cricket enthusiasts and experts alike eagerly anticipate his future exploits on the field. With each passing game, Shanto aims to inspire budding cricketers and etch his name in the annals of Bangladeshi cricket as one of its finest representatives.
