Mehidy Hasan Miraz has replaced Najmul Hossain Shanto as the new ODI captain of Bangladesh for a period of 12 months. The sudden decision has been taken just a few weeks before the start of the ODI series between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. As per the reports, Shanto has wished to step away from the Test captaincy to avoid the segregation of power.
Speaking of the decision, Miraz claimed to be unaware of the things that went into the discussion. However, he felt everyone in the board meeting would have agreed to his captaincy. Mehidy Hasan Miraz claimed that he was informed about the change in leadership just a day ago. Mehidy felt Shanto's term as the captain lasted only till the Champions Trophy 2025.
"I don't know how (the captaincy) was decided. It is usually done in a board meeting. Nobody can decide on their own. I think all of us are usually prepared mentally for any situation we may have to face. He was the ODI captain for a term, which had ended (in the Champions Trophy)," Mehidy told reporters as quoted by Cricbuzz.
"They probably had conversations about the Test team. I am not sure if they spoke about the ODI team. Fahim sir (Nazmul Abedin - BCB cricket operation chairman) called me yesterday and said that they are going to give me the responsibility, and he said that they don't have much time. They have to make a decision quickly. He said that they are planning accordingly," he continued.
We want to take Bangladesh forward: Miraz
The star All-rounder added that Najmul Hossain Shanto had done well in ODIs, but the decision to change his captaincy was taken by the board. He, however, felt that the change in leadership would not have a big impact on the dressing room. Mehidy Hasan Miraz confirmed that he would get Shanto's support going forward and assured stability in the Bangladeshi team.
"He (Najmul) has been performing well in ODIs, but it was the board's decision (to change the captaincy). We may not have fulfilled expectations in terms of team results during this period. I don't think it will have an effect on the dressing room (change in captaincy). We are all playing for the country. These things won't bother Shanto and me. I helped him a lot during his captaincy. He will do the same. He will help me. We want to take Bangladesh forward," he further added.
The new Bangladeshi skipper recalled his days from the Under-15 level, from where he has been playing with Shanto. He felt the need to carry forward the team from the current situation, which was possible due to the contribution of their seniors. Miraz concluded by saying to recover from the tough time they are undergoing.
"Shanto and I have been playing together since our Under-15s. We spoke about taking Bangladesh forward; it doesn't matter who the captain is. We have to play as a team. Our senior players brought us to a stage, and now we want to take the team further. It is our responsibility. We are going through a bad time, but I hope that we can get over it quickly," Miraz concluded.
