Mehidy Hasan Named Bangladesh’s New ODI Captain, Replacing Najmul Hossain Shanto

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced Mehidy Hasan Miraz as the new captain of the national One Day International (ODI) team, replacing Najmul Hossain Shanto. The decision, revealed on Thursday (June 12), comes less than a month before Bangladesh's upcoming three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka, starting July 2.

Mehidy, who will lead the side for the next 12 months, becomes the latest cricketer to take charge in a period of transition for Bangladesh cricket. The BCB cited Mehidy’s consistent all-round performances, leadership qualities, and energetic presence as key reasons for the appointment.

“The Board felt that Miraz's consistent performances with the bat and ball, his ability to fight and inspire the team and his energetic presence on and off the field make him an ideal candidate,” said Nazmul Abedeen, Chairman of BCB's Cricket Operations Committee.

Mehidy, 27, has scored 1,617 runs and taken 110 wickets in 105 ODIs. Ranked No. 4 among ICC ODI all-rounders, he joins an elite group of Bangladeshi cricketers — including Shakib Al Hasan and Mashrafe Mortaza — to achieve the 1000-run, 100-wicket double in the format.

“It is a huge honour to be entrusted with this responsibility,” Mehidy said. “Leading the country is a dream, and I want us to play fearless cricket and perform with confidence.”

Shanto, who recently stepped down from T20I captaincy, had led Bangladesh in 13 ODIs, scoring 564 runs at an average of 51.27. Though no longer ODI captain, the BCB reaffirmed his importance to the team and leadership group.

This change marks a return to format-specific captains for Bangladesh, with Najmul continuing as Test captain and Litton Das leading in T20Is.