Bangladesh captain Litton Das picked up a side strain during practice on the eve of their Super Four fixture against India in Dubai, raising concerns just as the team enter a decisive phase of their Asia Cup campaign.
The right-handed wicketkeeper-batter was batting fluently in the nets on 22 September, preparing for the high-stakes encounter, when he suddenly felt discomfort and stopped mid-session. Despite attempting to carry on, Litton was unable to continue. Team physio Bayejidul Islam provided initial treatment and guided him out of the nets. As a precaution, the skipper did not return to batting and instead watched the remainder of the session from the sidelines before leaving the ground with his teammates.
Although the injury initially caused anxiety, it is understood that the strain is not too serious, and there is hope Liton will be available for selection against India. Speaking after practice, all-rounder Sheikh Mahedi said he could not provide any update, admitting: “I don’t know anything about this. I was practising.”
Bangladesh defeated Sri Lanka by 4 wickets in their first Super Four match, moving a step closer to the final. Their last two fixtures in this stage come against India on 24 September and Pakistan on 25 September, both at Dubai International Stadium. Winning either of those matches would put the Tigers within touching distance of a place in the title decider.
Litton’s availability will be crucial for Bangladesh, who have relied heavily on his form throughout the tournament. After beating Hong Kong and Afghanistan in the group stage and beginning the Super Four with victory over Sri Lanka, the Tigers remain firmly in the race for the final.
