Bangladesh Players Keen On T20 World Cup, Says Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto said that the players are eager to play the T20 World Cup despite uncertainty over BCB’s stance and ICC discussions.

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has stated that players are eager to play in the 2026 T20 World Cup despite ongoing uncertainty. He spoke on Tuesday, one day before the Bangladesh Cricket Board is expected to clarify its position.

Shanto explained that no formal discussion has taken place within the Cricketers Welfare Association of Bangladesh on the issue. He added that players remain focused on matches while awaiting clarity from the board. Shanto also stressed that World Cups are rare opportunities in a player’s career.

“There wasn’t really an opportunity to talk about it. Those of us involved with CWAB have been very busy with matches. On top of that, something happened recently which affected the players mentally. It was a very tough time,” he said to the media on Tuesday.

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“As cricketers, we always want to play. And when it’s an event like the World Cup, of course we want to be there. These tournaments don’t come often. World Cups are rare, especially the 50-over format which comes every four years. I see it as a big opportunity for us to play good cricket,” Shanto added.

Najmul Hossain Shanto Admits Limited Knowledge Of Board Talks

The skipper then admitted that players remain unclear about the board’s internal discussions on the 2026 T20 World Cup. He pointed out that the final call rests with the Bangladesh Cricket Board, which is expected to announce its decision on Wednesday.

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“I don’t really know what is happening internally, so it’s difficult for me to comment. But as players, we definitely want to play. There are many issues involved, and I don’t personally know everything in detail. But I believe if these matters are resolved properly and if we get the opportunity, Inshallah it will be very good for the players to take part in the World Cup,” he said.

Litton Das Flags BCB’s Communication Gap

Earlier, T20 captain Litton Das also raised concerns over a lack of communication from the board. Speaking during the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League, he said players were not consulted about participation plans.

“No (consent was not taken). I don’t know but there has been no communication with me. Many things in life are not ideal, but you have to accept them according to the situation,” Das had said.

Bangladesh players now await the board’s final decision on participation.