Dhaka, April 9, 2026 (BSS) - Bangladesh players have expressed hope that school cricket will continue to grow as a strong foundation for producing future national cricketers, calling for greater investment, improved facilities and overseas exposure.

Speaking at the jersey unveiling ceremony of this year’s Prime Bank National School Cricket Tournament today, Bangladesh Test captain Najmul Hossain Shanto said his development had benefited significantly from early international exposure.

“My journey started through age-level cricket, but I was fortunate to play a school tournament in Kerala at the Under-17 level. That experience was very important for my career,” he said, recalling that he was named the best player in the competition.

Shanto urged organisers to reintroduce similar overseas opportunities for promising school cricketers.
“As far as I remember, that was the only such tour. If we can select the best school players and arrange matches abroad or even against state teams, it will benefit them and increase interest in the tournament,” he added.

The left-handed batter stressed that school cricket should be treated as a key development platform rather than merely a participation-based event.

“If we can expand the tournament and ensure proper facilities, players will come on their own. Right now, sometimes schools need to be invited—but that should change,” he said.

Highlighting the broader value of school cricket, Shanto said it offers both enjoyment and a pathway to professional success.

“We play to enjoy the game, but it is also an opportunity. Strong performances here can take a player a long way. It also builds friendships and understanding, creating a positive environment,” he noted.

Reflecting on Bangladesh cricket, Shanto acknowledged a relative lack of role models compared to previous generations but expressed optimism, citing players like Shakib Al Hasan, Tamim Iqbal and Mushfiqur Rahim as inspirations during his youth.

“We have a big responsibility. If we perform well, the next generation will be inspired by us,” he said, adding that current school players could one day represent the national team.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh batter Towhid Hridoy also underscored the importance of school cricket, calling for better scheduling and wider opportunities.

“To be honest, whenever I talk about school cricket, I become a bit emotional. My journey in cricket started from here,” Hridoy said.

He recalled the challenges of limited resources during his school days but said enthusiasm remained high.

“We used to share bats and helmets and still enjoyed the game immensely,” he said.

Hridoy described school cricket as a vital platform for emerging talent but expressed concern over matches being affected by rain in recent years.

“Some matches were decided by toss due to rain. The tournament should not be held during the rainy season so players can play full matches,” he said.

He added that ensuring proper scheduling and venues would help maximise opportunities for young cricketers.

Hridoy, whose school team won the national title during his time, emphasised the importance of team success over individual achievements.

“With so many schools participating, becoming national champions is not easy. That shows how competitive the tournament is,” he added.