On Monday evening at the ICC Academy ground in Dubai, Litton Das was going through an intense net session. The Bangladesh captain looked in fine touch, playing an array of shots, reverse sweeps, lofted drives, and crisp strokes down the ground. But suddenly, while attempting a square cut to a delivery outside off stump, he pulled up in discomfort, immediately clutching his left side near the ribs.
He left the nets straightaway and lay down on the sidelines, receiving treatment from team physio Bayzid Islam. Later it was learned that the right-hander had suffered a strain around his ribs. He did not resume batting that evening, though he left the ground walking normally with the rest of the squad. Still, some uncertainty has crept in over whether he will be fit to play against India on Wednesday evening.
Team sources, however, have indicated that the injury is not serious and that Litton is able to walk around without much difficulty. On Tuesday, management confirmed he would be kept under observation until match day. But when asked if the Bangladesh skipper would feature against India, officials declined to make any formal statement.
Having begun the Asia Cup with a fluent fifty, Litton has largely looked in rhythm throughout the tournament, barring the blip against Afghanistan. Beyond his captaincy duties, his batting presence remains vital for the team.
Adding to the challenge, Bangladesh face Pakistan the very next day, with Salman Agha’s side keeping their Super Four hopes alive after defeating Sri Lanka on Tuesday night.
