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Bangladesh left-arm spinner Taijul Islam has expressed his desire to lead the national team in Test cricket after Najmul Hossain Shanto stepped down from the position.
Shanto resigned as captain following the team’s crushing defeat by an innings and 78 runs in the second Test against Sri Lanka last month, bringing an end to his tenure less than a year after taking charge.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has not yet announced a replacement for Shanto. However, Taijul Islam has expressed his interest in stepping in.
Speaking to local media on Tuesday, the 33-year-old stated that he feels prepared to take on the responsibility, highlighting his experience and composure as important strengths.
“I believe I have experience, there’s no reason I can’t do the job if it’s offered. It’s not about being greedy, I believe if the responsibility is given to me, I believe I can carry it,” he said.
He stressed that leadership isn’t about status but about having a long-term vision.
“A captain should have a long-term view for the team. You need to have a goal, like where you want to see your team two years from now. And that goal must be supported by the team management,” he added.
Taijul Islam also underscored the importance of backing the captain fully, suggesting that belief in leadership often translates into better team performances.
“I think it is important to give space to the captain and to value his perspective, because the team performs well when there is faith in leadership,” he further stated.
While Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who recently took over as ODI captain, remains in the conversation for red-ball leadership, Taijul’s red-ball consistency and seniority could work in his favour.
Since 2021, the left-armer has elevated his game, especially overseas, where he previously struggled.
“There are several factors. Age is one at this stage, you can pitch the ball exactly where you want. Experience is another,” he explained.
“Before 2021, I hadn’t played many overseas Tests. That experience has helped me improve gradually.”
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