After Najmul Hossain Shanto stepped down as Bangladesh’s Test captain, the BCB is in a bit of a bind as to who they can turn to next, with no obvious candidates presenting themselves. 

Bangladesh currently has two different captains for T20Is and ODIs. It would seem sensible to give it to one of them, since most teams try to avoid three different captains for the three formats of cricket. But it is not clear if either of the two - Litton Das and Mehidy Hasan Miraz -  is too keen to add the Test role, or if the BCB is considering other candidates.

Najmul did not specify why he opted to abdicate the Test captaincy, although it was expected for a while. However, the move suggests possible issues with the board, particularly after Mehidy's appointment as ODI captain (replacing Najmul).

Whatever the reason, Najmul is no longer leading Bangladesh in Tests. The team must now identify its new Test leader.

Looking back to the squad of Bangladesh’s last Test shows that only two men— Litton or Mehidy— can take the role. 

Litton currently captains Bangladesh's T20I side and has previous experience leading the Test team in one match. He did not emerge as a captain during his age-group days, nor was he pegged as a future leader after years in the national side. But when given the chance with the responsibility, he led the team effectively.

And at the same time, as one of Bangladesh's premier Test batters, he remains a strong contender for the role. Having played 50 Tests, he is among the country's most experienced players.

Mehidy is another contender for the role. Newly appointed as ODI captain, he could be ready to add the Test leadership. He also has experience leading Bangladesh in two Tests during 2024.

The right-arm off-spinning allrounder has played 54 Tests, a record that makes him a stronger candidate for the role. He also boasts experience leading teams at age-group and domestic levels regularly. 

While less likely, Mominul Haque remains a contender by virtue of his regular Test status. Long overlooked for ODIs and T20Is, he retains a place in the Test team and possesses experience leading the side for three years.

It’s understood Mominul is less inclined to reclaim the role currently, but should the situation demand, he might reconsider. Having played 74 Tests, he stands among the region's most seasoned campaigners.

The board might also consider former long-term captain Mushfiqur Rahim if seeking a short-term solution. Mushfiqur led Bangladesh for over five years and possesses proven leadership qualities.

But the only drawback is his career is nearing its end. He has already retired from white-ball cricket and has limited time remaining in the red-ball format.

So the question remains: would he take on the captaincy now? But equally, if the board is looking for a short-term transitional solution, Mushfiqur might prove the best choice. 

Another name circulating within the Bangladesh cricket fraternity is Taijul Islam. The left-arm spinner holds a near-permanent place in the Bangladesh Test team and has years of experience.

Months ago, during another phase of captaincy uncertainty, Taijul expressed his readiness to take on the role should the board require him. As the country again faces difficulty identifying its Test leader, Taijul emerges as a potential choice. He lacks a star persona, but his Test record, understanding of the game, and experience make him a significant option to guide Bangladesh's Test future.

The other members of the current Test squad are either inexperienced or not yet ready for the Test captaincy. So the next captain might come out from these five players.