Taskin Ahmed Open to T20I Captaincy, Talks About IPL and Board's Support

Bangladesh cricketer Taskin Ahmed has expressed his willingness to take on the T20I captaincy if the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) considers him for the role. This comes after Najmul Hossain Shanto stepped down from his T20I captaincy duties earlier. Since then, the board has not yet announced a permanent captain for the format, with Litton Das having taken on the role during the West Indies series. Taskin's name has now emerged as a potential candidate for the position.

When asked about the captaincy, Taskin said, "It’s entirely up to the board to decide who they see as the captain. At the end of the day, I am a player who wants to enjoy the game and give my best. There’s nothing more comforting than winning matches. If the board thinks I am fit for the role, it would be a different matter. Yes, I would try, InshaAllah, if the board decides."

Taskin also discussed interest from an IPL franchise. He revealed that an IPL team had contacted him, following the mega auction where no Bangladeshi player was picked. He said, "An IPL team did get in touch with me. Since no Bangladeshi players were selected in the mega auction, and big tournaments often bring in replacement players, Lucknow reached out to check if I was available in case of a replacement. They were thinking about me in case they needed someone to step in. They asked if I could get an NOC to play."

Previously, Taskin was unable to play in the IPL due to not receiving an NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the board. However, this time, he assured that there would be no issues regarding that. "If they need me, that’s the first thing. If I’m fit and they need me, then the issue of the NOC comes up. I’ve spoken with the board, and as far as the discussions have gone, there shouldn’t be any issue if I get a call," he added.

Taskin also credited his growth to his family’s support and blessings. He said, "By Allah’s grace, with my family’s prayers and their support, I am steadily growing. I am always striving to improve from my end. With their love, prayers, and Allah’s grace, I hope to do something even better for my country."