Prospective captain Najmul Hossain Shanto calls on the BCB to provide comprehensive autonomy | Cricbuzz.com

**EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Najmul Hossain Shanto Advocates for Empowered Leadership as Potential Captaincy Candidate**

**Authored by Atif Azam**

**Last Updated On: [DATE]**

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**Najmul Hossain Shanto – Leadership Pioneer for Bangladesh Cricket**

With leadership experience stemming from the Champions Trophy 2025, Najmul Hossain Shanto remains a front-runner in Bangladesh’s cricket captaincy conversation. Appointed as captain across formats until the Champions Trophy, Najmul has expressed a desire for the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to grant more autonomy and precedence to its future skipper, advocating for a robust and clear mandate within the role.

During his interim captaincy in the 2023 World Cup, Najmul showcased his potential, leading Bangladesh against formidable opponents such as India and Australia, amidst challenges posed by Shakib Al Hasan’s health absence. Consequently, the BCB named him the all-format captain, an opportunity to illustrate his leadership qualities further.

Under Najmul’s guidance, the team achieved significant milestones, including their first-ever Test victory against New Zealand on home soil in November 2023 and subsequent ODI and T20I wins in New Zealand — a remarkable feat since touring began in 2007. A historic Test series triumph in Pakistan followed, where the team secured a series sweep, although their subsequent tour of India was less fruitful, resulting in a series loss.

The transition within the BCB, notably with head coach Chandika Hathurusingha’s departure following a change in presidency to Faruque Ahmed, compounded challenges. Najmul addressed the inevitable stress these changes brought but remained diplomatic, asserting such instability should not serve as an excuse for team performance struggles in India.

Despite guiding Bangladesh to the second round of the T20 World Cup in 2024, a feat last achieved in 2006, Najmul contemplated stepping down as captain across formats post the South Africa series. After deliberation, and a constructive dialogue with President Faruque Ahmed, Najmul adjusted his stance, relinquishing only the T20 captaincy to maintain his enjoyment and focus on the longer formats.

Reflecting on the challenges of captaining across three formats, Najmul acknowledged the complexities and pressure it brought to his role and decision-making processes. However, he values the opportunity to lead and anticipates the BCB’s decision regarding his future involvement.

Encouraging thorough support in the role, Najmul emphasized the importance of empowering the captain with significant authority and a long-term vision, aligning with strategies observed in other leading cricket nations. He seeks a supportive environment for the captain to execute duties effectively and drive the team forward.

Looking ahead, the continuity of both Najmul’s and head coach Phil Simmons’ roles await decision-making from the BCB. Najmul praised Simmons for providing clear, egalitarian roles within the team environment, fostering unity and pragmatism.

As the BCB contemplates the future captaincy and coaching appointments, Najmul remains optimistic about contributing robust leadership dynamics, paving the way for Bangladesh cricket’s elevated stature on the global stage.

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