The Bangladesh Cricket Board is initiating discussions to appoint a new T20I captain, as incumbent leader Nigar Sultana prepares to relinquish the role following the ongoing Asian Games. Sultana, who has steered the side since 2022, will maintain her position as the ODI captain. She communicated her decision to the board via email, expressing a desire to dedicate more energy to her roles as a batter and wicketkeeper.
The announcement arrived unexpectedly, just two days prior to the team’s tournament opener against China. Board sources confirmed that left-arm spinner Nahida Akhter and all-rounder Sobhana Mostary have emerged as the primary contenders for the vacancy. An official close to the matter, speaking anonymously, noted the limited pool of candidates, stating that the board must identify a successor while acknowledging the pair’s strong standing in the shorter format.
Sultana’s tenure was marked by significant milestones, including a historic 2024 T20 World Cup performance where Bangladesh defeated Scotland for their first victory at the tournament in a decade. Throughout that campaign, she proved vital with both bat and gloves, contributing 104 runs and seven dismissals. Despite these highlights, her leadership faced periodic scrutiny. The team experienced a mixed run, featuring an unbeaten qualifying streak in early 2026, followed by a 2-1 home series loss to Sri Lanka and inconsistent performances in a tri-series involving Scotland and the Netherlands.
Internal tensions have also characterized recent months. Reports suggest that communication between Sultana and the board, particularly women’s wing chairman Rafiqul Islam Babu, was strained, notably surrounding a handshake controversy during the Asia Cup semifinal against India. Furthermore, earlier claims by Jahanara Alam alleged an autocratic leadership style and verbal abuse within the dressing room, casting a shadow over Sultana’s tenure. Her recent dip in batting form, which has historically served as her primary defense against criticism, also likely factored into her departure.
Beyond the immediate front runners, the board is considering the long-term future of the leadership. While younger prospects like Rabeya Khatun, a former A-team captain, and all-rounder Shorna Akhter are under consideration, officials are cautious about placing the burden of captaincy on them too early. These internal deliberations are occurring alongside a broader restructuring, with current head coach Sarowar Imran expected to depart following the Asian Games. David Hemp, previously associated with the women’s side and the High Performance unit, is reportedly being eyed as his potential successor.
The transition arrives at a critical juncture, as Bangladesh prepares for their Asian Games semi-final clash against India in Japan on September 21. This fixture could mark the final time Sultana leads the T20I unit. While a victory might introduce new variables into the leadership transition, the board appears focused on securing a stable future with limited experienced alternatives available at this time. The report also notes that BCB sources have confirmed to that Nahida and Sobhana are expected to be among the names discussed when the board’s high-ups meet to decide on the next T20I captain. The report also notes that as she decided to step down, we have to find someone,” an official working closely with the development said on the condition of anonymity, i think there are not too many cricketers around to replace Sultana but. The report also notes that however, there is a feeling within the board that handing either of them the responsibility at this stage could be premature.
