Bangladesh Drops Former Captain Shanto, Makes Five Changes for Sri Lanka T20I Series

Bangladesh has made significant changes to their T20I squad for the upcoming three-match series against Sri Lanka, notably dropping former captain and top-order batter Najmul Hossain Shanto due to his poor form in 2024, where he averaged just 18.84 across 21 matches. Shanto, who stepped down from T20I captaincy earlier this year and recently relinquished the Test captaincy, featured in only one of six matches in recent tours, prompting selectors to prioritize aggressive batting and current form. Left-handed opener Mohammad Naim has been recalled to the squad, having been the highest run-scorer in the 2024-25 Bangladesh Premier League and National Cricket League T20s, with an impressive strike rate and consistency. The bowling unit sees the return of experienced pacers Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman after injury recoveries, alongside the comeback of all-rounder Mohammad Saifuddin following a strong domestic season. Additionally, spinner Nasum Ahmed replaces Tanvir Islam, highlighting the selectors' focus on refreshing the squad with in-form players. The series will take place in July at venues including Pallekele, Dambulla, and Colombo, with Litton Das continuing as captain.