Najmul Hossain Shanto, the current Test and ODI captain for Bangladesh, expressed his desire for greater autonomy in leading the team. He mentioned feeling overwhelmed by the responsibilities across all three formats of cricket.
Appointed as captain until the 2025 Champions Trophy, Najmul had previously communicated to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) the importance of empowering the captain with both authority and priority for the team’s long-term success. His leadership potential was evident during the 2023 World Cup when he substituted for Shakib Al Hasan.
Najmul’s tenure as captain has been marked by both highs and lows. Under his leadership, Bangladesh achieved their first-ever Test victory against New Zealand at home in November 2023. This was followed by historic ODI and T20I wins against New Zealand in New Zealand, a feat they had not accomplished in previous tours since 2007.
A significant triumph was the Test series clean sweep against Pakistan in August, considered Bangladesh’s biggest Test series victory. However, this was followed by a disappointing tour of India where they suffered heavy defeats in the ODI series.
Changes within the BCB, including a new president, Faruque Ahmed, led to speculation and pressure on head coach Chandika Hathurusingha. Najmul acknowledged that such changes could have an impact, but didn’t want to use it as an excuse for poor performance in India.
Najmul emphasized the importance of a positive team environment, noting the relaxed atmosphere during the successful Pakistan tour compared to the India series. He believes external factors, like discussions about the coach’s future, can negatively affect the team’s focus and trust.
He highlighted the disruption caused by rumors surrounding the coach’s potential dismissal, stressing that such distractions are detrimental to team performance and player morale. He urged journalists and everyone involved to prioritize Bangladesh’s success and avoid such discussions during series.
Following the T20 World Cup 2024, where Bangladesh reached the second round for the first time since 2006, Najmul considered stepping down as captain across all formats. However, after discussions with the BCB president, he continued, eventually relinquishing only the T20I captaincy.
Najmul explained that managing all three formats felt demanding, not just due to personal batting pressures, but the overall mental load of juggling responsibilities. He decided to step down from T20Is to focus better on his batting and reduce pressure.
He reflected on the captaincy, acknowledging initial miscommunications and a feeling of lacking decision-making power. However, his meeting with the BCB president clarified the situation and positively influenced his decision to continue leading.
The discussion with the BCB president proved crucial, providing clarity and reassurance. Najmul stated that the president addressed his concerns, leading to a better understanding and renewed commitment to captaincy.
Reportedly, the BCB president promised Najmul significant freedom in team management, a promise Najmul believes has been largely fulfilled, estimating about 80-90% adherence. He expressed satisfaction with the current level of autonomy and hopes it continues.
Najmul mentioned that the BCB has not yet discussed the captaincy with him for the future. He advocated for a long-term captaincy appointment, especially with the 2027 World Cup in view, emphasizing the need for the captain to have significant authority, mirroring practices in other leading cricket nations.
He argued that the captain’s on-field perspective is vital and should be prioritized by the board. He believes empowering the captain would elevate the Bangladesh team’s performance. He hopes the BCB considers this, especially with board members who have playing experience.
The BCB’s decision on Najmul’s captaincy and the head coach position remains pending. Phil Simmons, who succeeded Hathurusingha, is also awaiting contract renewal after the Champions Trophy.
Najmul expressed positive feedback about working with coach Phil Simmons, praising his calm demeanor, planning skills, and fair treatment of all players, regardless of seniority. He values Simmons’ team-oriented approach and clear role assignments.
