Bangladesh is rigid on their stance of not playing T20 WC matches in India.
His remarks were made on Tuesday, the day before the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is scheduled to formally announce its position.
Speaking to the media, Shanto stated that the Cricket Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB) has not held a formal debate on the matter, but he emphasized that the players are eager to compete in the World Cup even though they are unaware of the board's internal discussions.
“There wasn’t really an opportunity to talk about it. Those of us involved with CWAB have been very busy with matches. On top of that, something happened recently that affected the players mentally. It was a very tough time,” Shanto told the media after Rajshahi Warriors' BPL 2025-26 game.
Shanto went on to emphasize the importance of a World Cup and why, despite the current impasse, the players saw it as a unique chance.
“As cricketers, we always want to play. And when it’s an event like the World Cup, of course, we want to be there. These tournaments don’t come often. World Cups are rare, especially the 50-over format, which comes every four years. I see it as a big opportunity for us to play good cricket,” he added.
Admitting that he is not fully aware of the developments within the board, Shanto reiterated that the players’ stance remains unchanged.
“I don’t really know what is happening internally, so it’s difficult for me to comment. But as players, we definitely want to play,” he added.
Shanto admitted that the final choice does not rest with the players but with the BCB, which is likely to issue its participation ruling on Wednesday.
“There are many issues involved, and I don’t personally know everything in detail. But I believe if these matters are resolved properly and if we get the opportunity, Inshallah, it will be very good for the players to take part in the World Cup,” he stated.
Everything stemmed from BCCI asking KKR to remove Mustafizur Rahman from their IPL 2026 squad. In retaliation, the Bangladesh Cricket Board refused to come to India for the T20 World Cup, citing security issues, and the Bangladesh government banned IPL broadcasts in the country.