Bangladesh’s Test captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has announced stepping down from the role following his team’s massive loss against Sri Lanka in the recent Test series.

 

Shanto made the announcement during a press conference after Bangladesh lost by an innings and 78 runs. He said he did not want to continue leading the team in Tests and that his decision was in the best interest of the team.

 

“This is not a personal decision. I believe it is better for the team,” Shanto said and added that three different captains for three formats was not helpful for them. “I have been part of the dressing room for some time and I think this is not the right approach. I informed the board about my decision a few days ago.”

 

He also made it clear that his decision was not an emotional reaction to the loss or any personal disappointment. “I don’t want people to think this is an emotional decision. It is fully for the benefit of the team,” Shanto added.

 

Najmul Hossain Shanto took over Bangladesh’s Test captaincy in November 2023 during the home series against New Zealand. Under his leadership, Bangladesh played 14 Test matches, winning four, losing nine and drawing one. One of his most memorable moments as captain was leading Bangladesh to back-to-back Test wins against Pakistan in August 2024.

 

Shanto also performed well with the bat while leading the side. His batting average as captain was 36.24, compared to an earlier average of 29.83. In Tests that Bangladesh won, he averaged 37.16 runs with the bat.

 

Earlier this month, Shanto was also removed as captain of the ODI team. Mehidy Hasan Miraz has now taken over the ODI leadership role.