Shanto targets historic win against Pakistan: 'Records are meant to be broken'

As Bangladesh gears up for this crucial series, captain Najmul Hossain Shanto addressed the media, expressing a positive outlook despite their challenging past.

In 2001, just a year after achieving Test status, Bangladesh made their first journey to Pakistan, led by Naimur Rahman. It wasn't a bilateral series but part of the Asian Test Championship. Fast forward 23 years, and Bangladesh returns to Pakistan in August, now under the leadership of Najmul Hossain Shanto for a two-Test series.

This marks the fourth bilateral series Bangladesh will play in Pakistan. Across seven tours in total, including international tournaments, Bangladesh has only managed two wins out of 25 matches on Pakistani soil—both against non-Pakistani teams. Against Pakistan, Bangladesh has lost all 20 matches played in Pakistan across all formats. Whether history will repeat itself or a new chapter will be written remains to be seen.

Reflecting on their recent performance, Shanto acknowledged that while the team had a solid series against New Zealand, their performance against Sri Lanka left much to be desired.

"Records are meant to be broken," Shanto remarked when questioned about Bangladesh's dismal record against Pakistan. "It won't be easy, but we have a strong squad. The players are eager to achieve something special, and we're determined to give our best effort."

Pakistan has already announced their playing XI, and with the Pindi pitch expected to favor fast bowlers, the toss could be crucial. However, Shanto downplayed its significance, stating, "The players are well-prepared to bat or bowl, regardless of the toss. Personally, I don't put much weight on it—we need to be ready for every situation that comes our way."

Shanto also touched on the team's recent focus areas, particularly improving their batting, which has struggled in recent matches. "Our batting hasn't been up to the mark recently, including in the Test series against Sri Lanka. But we've prepared well, and the players are confident that the batting unit will perform better this time. Bowling will also play a crucial role, and I believe we have a good chance to do well."

As Bangladesh prepares for the first Test, the team remains hopeful that this series could mark the turning point in their record against Pakistan. With a determined mindset and a balanced squad, Shanto and his men aim to defy the odds and rewrite history.