‘It Was My Fault’ – Shanto Takes Responsibility for Bangladesh’s Shock Defeat to Zimbabwe in Sylhet Test

Bangladesh Test captain Najmul Hossain Shanto took full responsibility for his team’s shock defeat to Zimbabwe in the first Test at Sylhet, owning up to his early dismissal on the fourth morning that sparked a dramatic collapse. Zimbabwe’s three-wicket win marks their first away Test victory since 2021, and has left Bangladesh facing tough questions about form, planning, and team selection.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Shanto did not hold back. “It was my fault that we lost the match, that's the truth,” he said candidly. “My wicket early in the morning ruined the whole match for us. If Jaker [Ali] and I had added 50 or 60 more runs at that time, we would have been in a better position.”

Shanto was dismissed off the second ball of the day, attempting an ambitious pull shot against Blessing Muzarabani, only to hand a leading edge to deep fine leg. His dismissal, with Bangladesh at 194 for 5, triggered a mini-collapse, as the hosts lost three wickets within the first half-hour. Despite Jaker Ali’s valiant efforts, Bangladesh were bowled out cheaply, handing Zimbabwe a golden opportunity which they seized with both hands.

Muzarabani’s Masterclass

Muzarabani was the chief destroyer for Zimbabwe, claiming a career-best match haul of 9 for 122. His awkward bounce and relentless discipline on a lively Sylhet pitch troubled Bangladesh throughout the Test. Shanto acknowledged Muzarabani’s impact but lamented the lack of application from Bangladesh’s batting unit.

“He bowled well and his height gives him an advantage,” Shanto said. “But we should have taken more responsibility. We needed better planning against their main bowler. We did that for some time, but clearly it wasn’t enough.”

Mushfiqur's Form Under the Scanner

The defeat has also cast a spotlight on the prolonged poor form of veteran batter Mushfiqur Rahim, who managed just 21 and 11 in the Test. His highest score in his last 12 innings is 37, despite being just five matches away from becoming Bangladesh’s first-ever centurion in Tests.

Shanto, however, offered a measured defense of the senior pro. “He’s an experienced cricketer, and he contributes off the field too. He talks to the batters, helps during training, and supports the planning. I’m not thinking about his milestone or past achievements, and I don’t think he is either. He’s made comebacks before, and I still believe he can.”

Sylhet Pitch Strategy Defended

There was also debate around the team’s decision to opt for a pace-friendly pitch in Sylhet, a rare move for Bangladesh at home. But Shanto stood by the decision, saying, “I don’t think we should always rely on home advantage. We wanted to challenge ourselves. Just because we lost, it doesn’t mean the pitch was wrong.”

Spin Bright Spot Amid the Gloom

Despite the defeat, there were positives for Bangladesh. Mehidy Hasan Miraz continued his fine form with the ball, claiming ten wickets in the match and becoming the third Bangladeshi to reach 200 Test wickets. Taijul Islam supported well with two second-innings wickets.

“Miraz and Taijul bowled extremely well and gave it everything,” Shanto noted. “But in the end, we just didn’t have enough runs on the board.”

As Bangladesh prepare for the second and final Test, there’s much introspection to be done—about shot selection, mental application, and perhaps even future leadership strategies.

‘It Was My Fault’ – Shanto Takes Responsibility for Bangladesh’s Shock Defeat to Zimbabwe in Sylhet Test

Muzarabani’s Masterclass

Mushfiqur's Form Under the Scanner

Sylhet Pitch Strategy Defended

Spin Bright Spot Amid the Gloom

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