Bangladesh lock in new captain to replace Sultana Joty

Bangladesh have confirmed that left-arm spinner Nahida Akter has been appointed as the new captain of their T20I side.

Nahida replaces outgoing skipper Nigar Sultana Joty, after the long-time captain stepped down from the role last month to focus on her batting.

It will see Nahida take the reins alongside new vice-captain Sobhana Mostary, with the duo's first task next month's ICC Women's Emerging Trophy event.

Nahida has more than 100 T20I matches for Bangladesh and Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) women’s wing chairman Rafiqul Islam Babu confirmed the 25-year-old will fill the role for at least one year.

“We have held discussions with key personnel and decided to give Nahida the captaincy in T20Is. Sobhana Mostary will be the vice-captain. Nahida has been given the role for a year, after which we will assess the situation and decide on the next step ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup in 2028,” Rafiqul told The Daily Star.

Sultana Joty quickly took to social media to show her support for Nahida, with the former Bangladesh skipper confirming she will continue to play alongside the new captain should she be selected.

“Heartfelt congratulations to Nahida, the new captain of the T20I team. I wish her all the best in this new role. I believe she will play an important role in taking the team forward with her ability and leadership,” Joty wrote.

“Our roles in the team have changed, but our passion for the red and green flag remains the same, as does our goal of taking Bangladesh cricket forward. As a teammate, I stand by Nahida and will continue to do so. I am always ready to provide whatever support I can for the team's success.

“We have come a long way together, and I hope we can write many more success stories together in Bangladesh colours. Once again, I wish you all the very best in your new role, Nahida Akter.”