In a notable turn of events, Chandika Hathurusingha, the coach of the Bangladesh cricket team, commends Najmul Hossain Shanto for his exemplary leadership skills at the conclusion of the white-ball tour in New Zealand.

Despite Bangladesh sharing the T20I series 1-1 after a narrow loss to Mount Maunganui, Hathurusingha highlighted Shanto’s strategic acumen and effective communication, steering the team to historic victories without key senior players.

Bangladesh faced setbacks in the absence of regular captain Shakib Al Hasan, pacers Taskin Ahmed, Ebadot Hossain, and all-rounder Mahmudullah in the last T20I. However, Shanto’s remarkable leadership was pivotal in securing their maiden T20I win against New Zealand and replicating the success in ODI cricket.

Hathurusingha praised Shanto’s clarity in conveying messages and setting expectations, noting an improved team environment in the dressing room. Notably, Shanto led the Tigers to their first home Test victory against New Zealand the previous month, further strengthening his case for long-term captaincy.

As Shakib contemplates his future captaincy role across all formats amid recovery and electioneering commitments, Hathurusingha suggests that Shanto’s compelling evidence merits serious consideration from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).

“I think they (BCB) will strongly think about that (Shanto for long-term captaincy). Of course, it’s the board’s decision, but Shanto has shown enough evidence for them to take him seriously,” concludes the coach.