Bangladesh are set to return to the T20I circuit after a long gap, including opting out of the last T20 World Cup. On Monday, Litton Das’s side will take on New Zealand in the first of a three-match T20 series in Chattogram.
However, ahead of the series opener, Litton had to address concerns regarding the recent form of Saif Hassan and Shamim Hossain Patwari during the pre-match press conference. The Bangladesh captain, however, remained unfazed, noting that both players are returning to the format after a break of around four months.
Vice-captain Saif Hassan, who operates in the top order, has scored 19, 22 and 6 in his last three outings. Meanwhile, Shamim Hossain Patwari, who usually bats at number five or six, has endured a poor run, scoring 1, 1 and 0 in his last three innings.
Asked whether this is a concern, Litton downplayed the issue. “I don’t think it’s a big concern. Even though we are playing T20s again after a long time, it will be challenging for all of us to try and perform,” he said.
However, the Bangladesh skipper believes match time will help the players regain rhythm. “I believe once we play a few games, this issue will be overcome,” he added.
