Bangladesh’s all-format skipper, Najmul Hossain, is unlikely to continue leading the team after the ongoing home Test series against South Africa.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) appointed Najmul as captain across formats for one year in February 2024, with expectations that he would guide the team in next year’s Champions Trophy.
However, Najmul has already informed the board of his intention to resign, pending approval from BCB president Faruque Ahmed, who is currently abroad but is expected to return soon.
“Yes, he informed us that he is not ready to lead the side after the South Africa series,” a senior BCB official confirmed to Cricpulse.
Najmul acknowledged his decision, stating, “Let’s see what happens regarding my leadership of Bangladesh, as I’m still waiting to hear from the president.”
He did not elaborate further.
A senior BCB director is attempting to persuade him to reconsider, but it seems unlikely at this point.
Reports indicate that Najmul had initially planned to step down from the T20 captaincy following the 2024 T20 World Cup, but later decided he wanted to resign from all three formats.
Recently, Najmul’s captaincy has faced criticism due to a prolonged period of underperformance.
Another BCB official noted that if Najmul ultimately decides not to lead after the South Africa Test series, the board may consider appointing Mehidy Hasan as captain for Tests and ODIs, with Towhid Hridoy potentially taking over the T20 side.
During his tenure, Najmul has led Bangladesh in nine Tests, securing three wins and suffering six losses, with a notable highlight being a maiden Test series victory over Pakistan.
In ODIs, he captained the team in nine matches, winning three and losing six.
In T20Is, he has led the side in 24 games, achieving 10 victories.
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