Shanto Says 'No Excuses' After Heavy Defeat

The celebrations of Bangladesh’s historic win in Darwin had barely faded when the team suffered a stunning collapse in Mackay. Bowled out for under 100 in both innings, Bangladesh ended the match with a bitter innings-and-51-run defeat. Speaking at the post-match press conference, captain Najmul Hossain Shanto did not hide his disappointment.

Shanto admitted that the result was extremely frustrating but made it clear that the team had no intention of making excuses. While the pitch was difficult for the batters, particularly in the first innings, Bangladesh’s batting throughout the match was far from satisfactory. He did, however, feel that the toss had some influence on the conditions they faced on the opening day.

Asked about the toss and his team’s batting failure, Shanto said, “Honestly, it’s very disappointing. But I do think the toss played a big role, especially in the first innings when batting was quite difficult. To be honest, all three innings were challenging, but there are no excuses. We simply didn’t bat well.”

Shanto also praised Australia’s bowling attack and acknowledged the areas where Bangladesh still need to improve.

“They bowled really well, so the challenge was always going to be there. I still think there are a few areas we need to improve if we want to move forward,” he said.

Shanto was also asked whether the emotional high of the Darwin victory or mental fatigue had affected the team in Mackay. The Bangladesh captain pointed to the professionalism expected from international cricketers.

“Emotions are always there, but as I said in the last press conference, as professional players, we needed to have a clear understanding of this match. We needed to approach it properly,” Shanto said.

He insisted that the players had entered the match fully prepared and with the right mindset.

“I believe the players were quite satisfied with their preparation and mindset. We simply couldn’t play our best cricket,” he said.

Bangladesh’s dramatic batting collapse in Mackay, coming immediately after their remarkable success in Darwin, will undoubtedly be a major lesson for the team. Against a world-class bowling attack, the gulf in batting technique and mental resilience was exposed once again. Shanto’s comments after the defeat made it clear that Bangladesh still have plenty of work to do if they are to compete consistently at the highest level.