In the event that Najimul Shanto decides to step down as Test captain, Taijul Islam, Bangladesh's seasoned spinner, has stated that he is prepared to assume the role. According to recent reports, Shanto is prepared to step down following the Test series against South Africa. Ahead of the second Test match against South Africa, Taijul stated that he was unaware of Shanto's choice and that, after ten years of playing international cricket, he is prepared to accept the position if it is offered.
"I haven't heard anything on this matter (regarding Najmul quitting from captaincy) It's not part of our role, I'm not fully informed on this," Taijul told reporters at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium on Monday.
"Having played for 10 years, I'm fully prepared (for captaincy)," he added.
When asked about players like Shakib Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal departing in the middle of a series, Taijul also acknowledged that some players might be impacted by outside noise.
"This is a team game. The most important thing is that the team remains in good condition. Some players may be affected by outside events, while others can continue their role with calmness. Personally, I try to stay relaxed and focus on my work. But within a team, I can't say how each person reacts; everyone's mindset is different. We're not involved in management or board meetings," said Taijul.
In addition, Taijul stated that after losing the opening game in Mirpur by seven wickets, the hitters will have to step up if they were to salvage the series against South Africa.
"Our goal remains the same: we'll play to win. As for the match conditions, we'll understand them once the game unfolds. But the focus will be on playing as a team - whether it's batting, bowling, or fielding. We'll do our best to win," Taijul pointed out.
"Every match is an opportunity. From that perspective, I think this is another chance for the batters. We haven't performed on the level as expected as a team, although some have had individual performances in different matches. If we can build two or three partnerships in a game, and one or two players score a century, our target will be much bigger and everyone's working hard and is fully committed," he added
The second Test match between Bangladesh and South Africa will start on October 29 (Tuesday).
