Chandika Hathurusingha, the Bangladesh coach, has come under fire for his alleged micromanagement and preference for a docile captain. Critics claim he sought a skipper who wouldn't challenge his decisions, leading to the controversial appointment of Najmul Hussain Shanto.
Shanto's elevation stemmed from his heroics in the New Zealand tour last year, where Bangladesh secured historic ODI and T20 victories. BCB president Nazmul Hasan Papon endorsed the coach's pick, making Shanto the captain.
However, just six months later, Shanto's leadership is under scrutiny. Following a dismal showing in the T20 World Cup, calls for his removal have intensified.
Shakib Al Hasan, a proven leader, had previously taken over the Test and T20 captaincy from Muminul Haque and Mahmudullah respectively. He even replaced Tamim Iqbal as the ODI skipper, only to be ousted after the World Cup.
Reports suggest the BCB envisioned Shakib leading the T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy, but Hathurusingha allegedly thwarted those plans.
While the leadership change might have suited the coach, it hasn't benefited Bangladesh. Shanto's batting has also suffered immensely. The top-order batsman has endured a lean year, with only a solitary fifty against Sri Lanka. His World Cup performances after Zimbabwe and the USA were particularly underwhelming.
In the crucial Super Eights stage against Australia and India, Shanto's scores of 41 and 40 were far from inspiring. Fans on social media have voiced their displeasure, demanding his removal from the captaincy.
Despite Australia's narrow defeat to India in the Super Eights, a potential semi-final berth remained within reach. However, Bangladesh's
tactical blunders in their final group match against Afghanistan cost them dearly.
Reports indicate the team management strayed from their initial
semi-final qualification plan. Shanto himself hinted at this in the post-match press conference, admitting they abandoned the strategy after losing early wickets.
During the 2022 T20 World Cup, fans showered Shanto with praise, even nicknaming him 'Lord Shanto.' However, the tide has turned
dramatically. Bangladeshi cricket fans are now voicing their discontent, echoing the calls for his removal that previously targeted Mohammad Ashraful (2009 T20 World Cup) and Mahmudullah (2021 World Cup).
