Key batter returns as Bangladesh Test captain

Bangladesh have confirmed key batter Najmul Hossain Shanto will continue to lead the side until the end of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship cycle.

Shanto had previously been in charge as skipper of Bangladesh in all three formats, but had stepped down from the Test captaincy following the side's series loss to Sri Lanka in June.

But the 27-year-old has had a re-think on his future and will continue to captain the Test side until at least the end of the current World Test Championship cycle that runs up until 2027.

"I feel truly honoured to continue leading the Bangladesh Test team and I am very grateful to the board for the faith and trust they have shown in my captaincy," Shanto said.

"Captaining my country in Test cricket is the greatest pride of my life. I will do my utmost to repay the responsibility that has been entrusted to me.

"It is a joy to lead a team that has so much talent and potential, and I believe we have an exciting and positive season ahead. We are looking forward to the upcoming series against Ireland later this month, which marks the start of a busy and important period for Bangladesh Test cricket."

Bangladesh are currently in seventh place on the World Test Championship standings, with the side having registered one draw and one loss from two Test against Sri Lanka earlier in the year.

Their next assignment comes later this month when they host Ireland in two Tests that aren't part of the World Test Championship cycle.

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