Shanto’s Counter-Question Amid Criticism After Historic Loss to Zimbabwe in Sylhet

Bangladesh suffered a historic defeat at home in Sylhet as Zimbabwe clinched a dramatic 3-wicket win in the final session of Day 4, sealing their first-ever Test victory against Bangladesh on Bangladeshi soil. The hosts crumbled under pressure with both bat and ball, sparking serious questions about team performance and accountability.

In the post-match press conference, skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto faced the heat—not just for the defeat, but also for the timing of the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s recent announcement of increased player salaries. As questions emerged regarding whether the players’ performances reflect the financial rewards, Shanto responded with a counter-question to the media:
“Seems like you’re not happy with the pay raise?”

The question, which carried a mix of sarcasm and tension, added fuel to the ongoing discussion around the disparity between performance and privileges. The new central contracts include increased monthly salaries—T20I captain Taskin Ahmed is now the only A+ category player with a monthly salary of BDT 10 lakh. Shanto, Miraz, and Litton Das are in the A category, each earning BDT 8 lakh per month.

Match fees have also been significantly revised. Test cricketers will now earn BDT 8 lakh per Test, BDT 4 lakh per ODI, and BDT 2.5 lakh per T20I.

While the players' financial status has improved, the Sylhet defeat against an underdog Zimbabwe side has left fans and analysts frustrated. Shanto’s remarks may have opened up a larger debate: Is the Bangladesh team delivering enough to justify the investment?