Shanto Steps Down as Test Captain After Heavy Defeat in Colombo

 The defeat sealed a 1-0 series loss for Bangladesh in the two-match Test series and marked another disappointing chapter in their ongoing struggles in red-ball cricket. Speaking at a post-match press conference, Shanto described the decision as one made in the best interests of the team.

 “This is not personal. I have taken the decision for the betterment of the team. I think this will help the team,” Shanto stated. “I have been a part of the dressing room for the past few teams. I think three captains [for the three international formats] is not sensible. I don't know what the board will feel about this, and I will support their decision. But this is my personal decision. I think three separate captains will be difficult for the team to deal with.”

The 26-year-old took over Test captaincy in 2023, succeeding Shakib Al Hasan. While Shanto showed promise with the bat, results under his leadership were inconsistent, with Bangladesh managing only a handful of Test victories in that span.

His resignation leaves a leadership vacuum in the longest format, with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) yet to announce a successor. The team already has different captains for ODI and T20I formats, and Shanto’s remarks suggest he believes consolidating leadership could lead to better cohesion and performance.

The BCB is expected to meet soon to discuss the future of Test leadership and assess options ahead of their upcoming series.