Bangladesh is set to begin their ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 campaign with a two-Test series against Sri Lanka, starting June 17 at the Galle International Stadium. With renewed focus and clear objectives, Test captain Najmul Hossain Shanto is determined to carry forward the progress made during the last cycle and deliver more consistent results, especially in home conditions where the Tigers have struggled.

The tour marks a fresh start for Bangladesh in the new WTC cycle and will also serve as a historic moment for Sri Lanka, as veteran all-rounder Angelo Mathews prepares to play his farewell Test in the opening match. In the previous cycle (2023–25), Bangladesh managed to win four out of 12 Tests, including three away victories. However, they could secure only one win in six home games, a disappointing statistic that Shanto is eager to reverse. Speaking to the media before the team's departure, the skipper outlined his vision for improvement in home conditions.

Captain’s Focus: Building on Progress

"We have to win our home matches. In the last cycle [WTC 2023–2025], we performed really poorly at home. If we had won more matches there, it would have reflected on our overall number of wins. So, our goal is to improve in that area. We have specific plans to improve. Since we did well in away matches last time, that will give us confidence this year. If we can continue to perform in away conditions, it will help us grow in this cycle," Shanto said during a press conference.

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The left-hander also highlighted the importance of gradual progress and realistic ambitions, pointing to the upward trend from the previous cycle. "It's a big dream, and it would be a bit naive to think that far ahead right now. If we can progress step by step, that would be great. If you look back, we won one Test before the last cycle. But in the last cycle, we had won four. That's progress. This time, the goal is to win two or three more matches than before. If we can take these small steps, then why not? Someday, Bangladesh will play in the final. But it's important that we achieve better results than in the last cycle," he added.