Nahida Akter Named Bangladeshs New T20 Captain

There has been a change in leadership in the Bangladesh women’s T20 cricket team. Left-arm spinner Nahida Akter has been appointed the new captain of the Tigresses in the shortest format, replacing Nigar Sultana Joty. Batter Sobhana Mostary has been named her deputy.

Nigar had been mentally preparing to step down from the T20 captaincy since the Asian Games. Her decision was primarily driven by a desire to focus entirely on her individual performances as a batter and wicketkeeper. Speculation had been growing for some time that Nahida would take over the leadership, and the reports have now proved true.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) finalised the decision following a recent meeting, taking into account the opinions of the selection panel and relevant officials. Rafiqul Islam, head of the BCB’s women’s cricket department on the board of directors, confirmed the development, saying that after a lengthy review, they had decided to hand the T20 captaincy to Nahida, with Sobhana assisting her in on-field tactical decisions.

The BCB considers the change timely. Nahida has considerable experience working as Nigar Sultana’s deputy since 2022. Given her extensive experience in the role, the BCB administration believes promoting her to captain is a logical decision.

The upcoming tournament will be the first major test for new captain Nahida Akter. Bangladesh women will begin their new journey against arch-rivals Pakistan in the ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy, scheduled to start in Thailand on November 12.