Bangladesh have appointed left-arm spinner Nahida Akter as their new women’s T20I captain on an initial one-year term. The 25-year-old’s first assignment will be the ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy 2026 next month.
Nahida replaces Nigar Sultana, who led Bangladesh in 82 T20I matches. Sultana recently stepped down from the captaincy following the team’s disappointing performances in the Asia Cup and Asian Games.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board has also named middle-order batter Sobhana Mostary as Nahida’s deputy. Mostary recently created history by scoring an ODI century against Australia, highlighting her growing importance to the national side.
Nahida’s Impressive International Record
Nahida has established herself as one of Bangladesh’s most consistent performers since making her international debut in September 2015. She is the country’s leading wicket-taker in women’s T20Is, with 132 wickets at an average of 17.38. Her best figures in the format are an outstanding five wickets for eight runs.
The left-arm spinner has also made a significant impact in ODIs, claiming 81 wickets and playing a crucial role in several of Bangladesh’s important victories.
One of her most memorable T20I performances came against Pakistan in 2023, when she registered a five-wicket haul. She also played a decisive role in Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup victory over Pakistan this year, taking three important wickets.
Nahida has further strengthened her reputation through valuable contributions in Bangladesh’s ODI victories against Pakistan, the West Indies and South Africa over the past three years.
New Leadership After Sultana’s Departure
During Nigar Sultana’s tenure as captain, Bangladesh recorded 32 victories. However, the team’s recent struggles in major tournaments prompted a leadership change, with Nahida now entrusted with guiding the side through its next phase.
The appointment marks a significant milestone in Nahida’s career, as she moves from being one of the team’s leading bowlers to taking on the responsibility of captaincy.
With the ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy 2026 approaching, Nahida will have an early opportunity to establish her leadership and help Bangladesh regain momentum in international cricket.
The Bangladesh team management will hope that her experience, consistency and understanding of the game translate into improved performances under the new leadership group.