Mehidy Hasan Miraz Named Bangladesh ODI Captain | BCB Announcement 2025

MEHIDY HASAN MIRAZ APPOINTED BANGLADESH ODI CAPTAIN IN MAJOR LEADERSHIP SHIFT

DHAKA, 12 June 2025 – In a move that signals a bold new direction for Bangladesh's white-ball setup, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz as the new captain of the men’s ODI team. The 27-year-old replaces Najmul Hossain Shanto and will begin his leadership stint with the upcoming three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka in July, marking a fresh chapter in Bangladesh’s ODI ambitions.

Miraz, already a well-established name in Bangladesh cricket for his consistent performances with both bat and ball, now steps into one of the most demanding roles in the country’s sporting landscape. The decision, made by the BCB’s Cricket Operations Committee, reflects a strategic shift toward youth and long-term leadership planning as Bangladesh prepares for the next ICC ODI World Cup cycle.

A natural evolution in leadership for Mehidy Hasan Miraz

For Mehidy Hasan Miraz, this appointment is the culmination of years of hard work, quiet leadership, and impactful performances across formats. Speaking after the official announcement, an emotional yet composed Miraz expressed deep gratitude.

“Captaining the national team is a dream come true. I’m incredibly honoured by the trust the Board has placed in me. This is a proud moment for me and my family,” he said.

Miraz emphasized his belief in the team’s ability to play fearless and committed cricket.

“I believe in this group — we have the skills and the mindset to play fearless cricket. I want us to express ourselves confidently, stay committed, and keep playing with heart for the country.”

Miraz isn’t new to leadership responsibilities. He has already captained Bangladesh in four ODIs in the past during Shanto’s absence and has shown tactical maturity on the field. His elevation to full-time captaincy, however, comes at a critical juncture, with Bangladesh eyeing a more aggressive and results-driven approach in ODIs.

Statistical credentials back the leadership call

Miraz brings with him a strong statistical foundation. In 105 ODIs, he has scored 1617 runs and taken 110 wickets — an impressive feat that places him in elite company. He is one of only four Bangladeshi players, alongside Mohammad Rafique, Mashrafe Mortaza, and Shakib Al Hasan, to have completed the 1000-run and 100-wicket double in ODIs.

Moreover, he currently sits at No. 4 in the ICC ODI All-Rounder rankings, showcasing his global recognition and consistency. Whether with bat in the lower middle order or with ball in pressure situations, Miraz has often turned up for Bangladesh when it mattered the most. His match-winning spell against India in the Mirpur ODI series and crucial cameos in last year’s Asia Cup are recent testaments to his big-match temperament.

Why the BCB chose Miraz as ODI captain

The BCB’s Chairman of Cricket Operations, Nazmul Abedeen, underlined that the choice was made after careful consideration of both performance and personality.

“Miraz has consistently delivered with both bat and ball and brings a fighting spirit and infectious energy to the team,” said Abedeen.

He added, “His performances, leadership qualities, and overall maturity make him a fitting choice to guide the team through this transitional phase in our ODI journey.”

The BCB is clearly looking at the next 12 months — which include the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and key bilateral series — as a period for strengthening team culture, redefining tactical roles, and grooming leadership depth. Miraz’s appointment reflects their confidence in his ability to lead both on and off the field.

Najmul Hossain Shanto’s captaincy tenure and the way forward

While Najmul Hossain Shanto’s time as ODI skipper was brief, the BCB was quick to acknowledge his contribution. Under his watch, Bangladesh registered series wins against Ireland and Zimbabwe, and his calm demeanor at the crease provided stability.

Abedeen reiterated Shanto’s importance to the team, saying, “We’re grateful for the positivity and character Shanto displayed during his captaincy stint. He remains an integral part of our leadership group and a key figure in the batting unit.”

Shanto continues to be part of the leadership team across formats and is likely to remain vice-captain or a senior advisor under Miraz’s captaincy. This balanced shift indicates a collaborative leadership approach where roles are well-defined but flexible enough to evolve with team dynamics.

Miraz’s Test vice-captaincy also signals his growing stature

Adding to his responsibilities, Mehidy Hasan Miraz was also named vice-captain in Bangladesh’s Test squad for their first World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle, beginning with a two-Test series in Sri Lanka. This dual role across formats signals that the BCB sees him as a long-term pillar of Bangladesh cricket.

Such responsibility demands not just performances, but also maturity, strategic thinking, and the ability to unite the dressing room. Miraz, with his grounded nature and experience gained over nearly a decade in international cricket, appears ready to shoulder that responsibility.

The road ahead for Bangladesh ODI team under Miraz

The first challenge under his leadership will be a high-pressure away series in Sri Lanka — a place where Bangladesh’s ODI record is mixed. Given the Lankan surfaces favor spin, Miraz’s bowling could also play a central role in match scenarios.

The long-term roadmap will likely focus on integrating young talent such as Tanzid Hasan, Towhid Hridoy, and Mushfiq Hasan while optimizing the experience of veterans like Shakib and Litton Das. The leadership group under Miraz will be tasked with nurturing this blend into a competitive unit capable of challenging top sides consistently.

Bangladesh has shown in recent years that they are no longer pushovers in ODIs. The next step under Miraz is to convert narrow losses into wins and perform under pressure in multi-nation tournaments — a key benchmark the team will be judged on moving forward.