New Delhi [India]: Ahead of the much-anticipated T20I opener against Pakistan on Wednesday evening in Lahore, Bangladesh captain Litton Das exuded confidence in his team’s ability to bounce back and compete with any side globally.
Following a disappointing 2-1 series loss to the UAE in Sharjah, Bangladesh are seeking redemption in the upcoming three-match T20I series.
“We were not up to the mark in the last series. This is a new series, a new challenge. We know where we did well and where we did badly in the past. We will have to apply that [information] in the game,” Litton said during the pre-match press conference, as quoted by the ICC.
Renewed Focus on Consistency and Process
Litton emphasized that his team isn’t dwelling on the opposition, but rather on their own style and consistency.
“This is a different ball game. We, however, have the belief that we can beat any team in the world. We have to play good cricket. We are not focused on the opposition. I am not only focused on the team’s result, which doesn’t always come your way. I think what’s more important is how we are playing the game. If we can play sticking to a process, we will have more chance of a good result,” he added.
Reflections on the UAE Setback
Bangladesh started strong in their recent UAE tour, winning the first T20I by 27 runs. However, they faltered in defending high totals of 205 and 162 in the subsequent games, conceding the series 2-1.
“It is expected that there will be discussions and criticism when we don’t play well. We always try to play good cricket. We don’t want to repeat our mistakes of the past. I think we can have a good series,” the skipper said.
Targeting Consistency for Global Success
Litton acknowledged that inconsistency remains the team’s biggest hurdle in climbing the global rankings.
“We would be among the top teams in the world if we were a consistent side. We definitely lack something as we are down in the rankings. We are working towards becoming more consistent. Every series presents a different challenge. We faced distinctive challenges in the West Indies and the UAE. How we accept the upcoming challenges and perform as a team is something worth looking at,” he noted.
Skipper’s Own Form Under Scrutiny
Litton also addressed his personal dip in form, having scored only 65 runs across three innings in the UAE series. He stressed the need for a collective batting performance.
“I know how important my batting role is in this team. I will try my best to stay consistent. We have some good form players in the team. T20 needs a combined batting effort, so if we can do well together, we will have chance of good results,” he said.
The three-match T20I series between Bangladesh and Pakistan begins on May 28 and concludes on June 1, with all matches taking place in Lahore.