Sohel backs Shanto’s resurgence ahead of Pakistan tour

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) coach Sohel Islam on Thursday expressed confidence that the resurgence of Test skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto is the result of careful preparation, rather than a sudden turnaround.

Speaking after a training session, Sohel revealed that Shanto worked on both technical and mental aspects during practice ahead of the upcoming series against Pakistan.

The coach, however, declined to disclose specific details of the discussions.

“Actually, why should we disclose these things?” Sohel asked.

“When a player comes to practise, we work on various areas, mostly technical things, sometimes, and the mental side as well. Not everything needs to be shared in the media.”

The left-hander had endured a lean run with the bat earlier, prompting criticism from fans and analysts.

But the coach insisted the opening batter’s return to form was the natural cycle of a proven player rediscovering rhythm.

“It didn’t come suddenly,” he noted.

“When a player is struggling, people forget that he has performed well before. Shanto has already proven he can score runs.”

The coach stressed that Shanto’s performances in domestic competitions were built on strong preparation before those tournaments.

“What matters is the kind of preparation a player takes before competitions like the Bangladesh Premier League or Bangladesh Cricket League,” Sohel explained.

“These things are important.”

The 27-year-old joined the training session to fine-tune his game ahead of the Pakistan series, with Sohel reviewing potential challenges and technical adjustments.

“Since he came today (Thursday) focusing on the Pakistan series, we looked at what challenges might come and what technical areas need attention,” the coach said.

The veteran BCB coach also added that such sessions are routine for national players seeking guidance before major assignments.

“As the Tigers’ coach, players come to me for preparation,” he stated.

“This is part of their routine. When they need help, we check things to make sure everything is in order.”