Ample chances helping Shanto shine

Nazmul Hossain Shanto had been considered to be Bangladesh's next big thing since his showings for the age-level side. But since he was handed a Test debut in 2017, Shanto failed to replicate those heroics for the national side. 

But in recent times, Shanto has managed to show his quality. He got off to solid starts in Bangladesh's first Test against Pakistan and continued to do so against Zimbabwe at home as he scored 71 in the one-off Test.

Questioned in the post-match press conference about the reason behind his recent success, Shanto said that earlier he always feared of being excluded from the team but now with the team management's assurance, he can focus on his game. 

"There was a fear of getting kicked out (of the team) in the previous games I played. Something was in my mind when I got my maiden Test cap in 2017 in New Zealand. But now I am trying to play well on a regular basis. The coaching staff have advised me to not think too much about getting out of the team and told me that I will get enough chances. So I am focussing on my game only," Shanto said. 

Shanto also thanked his coach Sohel Islam for his recent good knick. He said, "In the last few months, Sohel sir has advised me to not think much about anything but my game and my strength, which is helping me to be confident and play according to my strength."

Shanto further added that his mentality had changed a bit and he stayed a bit more composed than his earlier days.

"I feel my mentality has changed a lot. I used to rush previously. But now I play with patience and try to calm down. This innings was composed from the beginning," Shanto said. 

Shanto played a composed 71-run innings to help Bangladesh get on the driving seat after the second day of the Test. But Shanto was a bit regretful in the end with not scoring big as the wicket was good to bat on. 

"Of course, there was a good chance (of scoring big) since the wicket is good. In the end, I am happy with the way I have batted. But I should have played a bigger innings considering the wicket was really good to bat on," Shanto said.

Shanto also got a good news after the day's play ended as he was called up for the first two ODIs against Zimbabwe. Shanto said that he was very happy and will try to do his best. 

"About getting into the ODI side, yes, I am happy. If I get a chance to play, I will try to do my best," Shanto added.

Bangladesh ended the day on 240-3 in reply to Zimbabwe's 265 and skipper Mominul Haque and veteran Mushfiqur Rahim were unbeaten at the crease. Asked about what kind of lead Bangladesh were expecting, Shanto said that saying it was difficult as it was a whole new day. 

"It's difficult to say because we have to start again tomorrow. Mominul and Mushfiq bhai are doing well. If they can continue I think we will be benefited from their batting," Shanto opined. 

Bangladesh will come in to bat on the third with a trail of 25 runs and will look forward to getting into the lead as soon as possible.