Shanto ends 771-day wait with ODI century against New Zealand

Najmul Hossain Shanto struck a composed century to end a 771-day drought in One Day Internationals, anchoring Bangladesh’s innings in the series-deciding third match against New Zealand national cricket team.

The left-hander reached the three-figure mark with a single at the Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium in Chattogram. He celebrated by removing his helmet, looking skyward and offering sijdah, drawing applause from teammate Towhid Hridoy and the dugout.

Shanto, who had shown signs of form in recent matches but failed to convert starts into big scores, capitalised on the crucial occasion to register his fourth ODI century. He brought up the milestone in 114 balls after reaching his half-century in 70 deliveries.

Bangladesh were under early pressure after losing openers Saif Hassan and Tanzid Hasan Tamim for just 9 runs in 2.1 overs, both dismissed by New Zealand pacer William O'Rourke. Soumya Sarkar added brief resistance before departing for 18, leaving the hosts at 32 for 3 in 8.3 overs.

Shanto then steadied the innings alongside Litton Das, building a crucial partnership. Rotating the strike effectively and punishing loose deliveries, he guided Bangladesh to a solid platform.

Notably, Shanto’s previous ODI century also came at the same venue — a 122-run knock against Sri Lanka national cricket team on March 13, 2024, when he was leading the side. Nearly 25 months later, he returned to Chattogram to reach the milestone again, this time as a senior batter.