In a significant shift in Bangladesh cricket's leadership, stylish batter Litton Das has been officially named the T20I captain until the next ICC T20 World Cup, set for 2026.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) confirmed the appointment on Sunday, May 4, bringing a close to weeks of speculation following Najmul Hossain Shanto's decision to relinquish the T20I captaincy due to workload concerns.

From Interim to Permanent: Litton Takes Charge

Litton Das isn't new to the captain's cap. He previously led Bangladesh during a T20I series in the West Indies with poise and tactical sharpness. But now, the reins are his for the long haul. With the BCB setting its sights on long-term stability ahead of a global campaign, Litton's elevation as full-time T20I skipper marks the beginning of a new chapter.

"Experience has been key in our decision," said BCB's cricket operations chairman Najmul Abedin. "Litton has the potential. We know his form has been patchy, but with organisation and support, he can be a major asset." as per report on cricbuzz.

This leadership transition also underscores the growing focus on grooming a younger core, especially as several seasoned names have stepped away from the shortest format.

Mahedi Named Vice-Captain - But Only for Now

Joining Litton in the leadership group is Mahedi Hasan, named vice-captain for the T20I tours of the UAE and Pakistan. However, this is a temporary role as the BCB eyes long-term grooming.

"Mahedi is tactically sharp, almost an automatic pick," Najmul Abedin added. "But his vice-captaincy is only for two series. We're in a phase of building future leaders under Litton's guidance."

Ashraf's Vote of Confidence

Chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain backed the appointment and pointed out that Bangladesh is now undergoing a transitional phase. "We have lost some senior cricketers. This is Litton's chance to lead from the front," he said.

Ashraf also confirmed that Litton is expected to anchor the innings from the No.3 spota position that demands versatility and composure. "That role needs impact. We believe Litton can provide that blend of aggression and steadiness."

Packed Calendar, High Stakes

Litton's baptism by fire begins with a dual challengeT20I series in the UAE and Pakistan. He will command a squad that blends youthful exuberance with bits of experience. With the Asia Cup and home series against cricketing giants India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka lined up, the pressure is on.

"We want to go into the World Cup with a performing, settled unit," Ashraf said. "This is the time to experiment, and Litton must shoulder the burden as both leader and batter."

A New Dawn

As the Tigers roar into a new phase, all eyes are on Litton Das. From technical tweaks under a new coaching regime to tactical tests on foreign soil, the coming months will define not just Litton's legacy, but Bangladesh's T20 fortunes.

Bangladesh T20I Squad (UAE & Pakistan):

Litton Das (capt), Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain, Soumya Sarkar, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, Jaker Ali, Rishad Hossain, Mahedi Hasan (vice-capt), Tanvir Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Hasan Mahmud, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana and Shoriful Islam.