Litton Das appointed Bangladesh T20 captain until 2026 World Cup

Litton Das has been appointed as Bangladesh's new T20I captain through to the 2026 T20 World Cup, with Mahedi Hasan named vice-captain, as the national selectors announced a 16-member squad for the upcoming series against the UAE and Pakistan. The decision follows Litton's successful stint as stand-in captain during the West Indies tour, where Bangladesh achieved a 3-0 series sweep. Najmul Hossain Shanto, who previously captained the team but stepped down from the T20 role earlier this year, returns to the squad alongside Towhid Hridoy, Mustafizur Rahman, Tanvir Islam, and Shoriful Islam. Key omissions from the squad include Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Afif Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Ripon Mondol, and Taskin Ahmed, the latter sidelined due to injury. Despite concerns over Litton's recent form and current injury, team management and selectors have cited his experience and tactical acumen as reasons for his appointment. The UAE series will formally mark Litton's tenure as full-time captain, as Bangladesh prepares for a critical phase leading up to the T20 World Cup.