Bangladesh’s Najmul Hossain Shanto has stepped down as Test captain, just days after his team suffered a crushing innings defeat to Sri Lanka in Colombo. The 25-year-old clarified that his decision was not emotional, but made for the “betterment of the team.”
Shanto, who led Bangladesh in 14 Tests since November 2023, announced his resignation during the post-match press conference. “I don’t want to continue in the Test format anymore,” he said, adding that he had already informed the BCB of his intentions earlier.
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He also questioned the logic of having three different captains for three formats, hinting at the need for a more unified leadership structure. The Bangladesh Cricket Board has yet to respond or name a successor.
Shanto’s departure from the role follows his earlier replacement as ODI captain by Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Despite mixed results, Shanto had secured notable wins, including away victories in Pakistan, and was seen as a long-term leader.
