Leadership Crisis in Bangladesh Cricket: Who Will Lead the Test Team?
After Najmul Hossain Shanto stepped down as the captain of Bangladesh’s Test team, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is facing a significant challenge in identifying a suitable successor. The absence of an obvious candidate has created a dilemma for the board, as they seek to appoint a leader who can guide the team effectively in the longest format of the game.
Currently, Bangladesh has separate captains for T20Is and ODIs, with Litton Das leading the T20 side and Mehidy Hasan Miraz at the helm of the ODI team. It would make sense to choose one of them for the Test role, as most cricketing nations aim to avoid having three different captains across the three formats. However, it remains unclear whether either of these two players is eager to take on the added responsibility of Test captaincy, or if the BCB is considering other options.
Najmul’s decision to step down came as no surprise, although the exact reasons behind his choice were not disclosed. His resignation may hint at underlying issues within the board, especially following Mehidy’s appointment as the new ODI captain. Regardless of the motivations, Najmul is no longer leading the Test team, and the focus now shifts to finding a new leader.
Looking at the current Test squad, only two players stand out as potential candidates: Litton Das and Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Both have experience in leadership roles and are well-versed in the demands of Test cricket.
Litton currently leads the T20I side and has previously captained the Test team in one match. While he did not emerge as a natural leader during his youth career, he has proven himself capable when given the opportunity. With 50 Test appearances to his name, Litton is among the most experienced players in the national team and remains a strong contender for the captaincy.
Mehidy, on the other hand, has recently been appointed as the ODI captain and could be ready to take on the Test leadership role as well. He has already led the team in two Tests in 2024 and has played 54 Tests, making him a formidable candidate. Additionally, Mehidy has extensive experience leading teams at age-group and domestic levels, which adds to his credentials.
While less likely, Mominul Haque remains a potential option. He has been a consistent presence in the Test team for over three years and has played 74 Tests, making him one of the most experienced players in the squad. Although he has been overlooked for white-ball formats, Mominul has shown interest in returning to the captaincy if needed. However, he seems less inclined to take on the role at this time.
Another possible candidate is Mushfiqur Rahim, the former long-term captain. With over five years of leadership experience, he possesses strong qualities that could benefit the team. However, his career is nearing its end, as he has already retired from limited-overs cricket. Whether he would consider taking on the Test captaincy remains uncertain.
Taijul Islam is another name being discussed within the cricketing community. As a left-arm spinner, he has a near-permanent spot in the Test team and brings valuable experience. Months ago, during a previous period of uncertainty, Taijul expressed his willingness to take on the captaincy if required. His lack of a star persona does not detract from his ability to lead, as his deep understanding of the game and extensive Test record make him a viable option.
The rest of the current Test squad consists of players who are either inexperienced or not yet ready for the responsibilities of captaincy. Therefore, the next Test captain is likely to come from among these five potential candidates.
As the BCB deliberates on the best course of action, the pressure is on to find a leader who can unite the team and steer it toward success in the Test format. The decision will have long-term implications for the future of Bangladesh cricket.
