Bangladesh’s cricketers have shifted their focus to the 50-over format with the Bangladesh Cricket League (BCL) now under way, treating the domestic competition as crucial preparation for the upcoming ODI series against Pakistan. Speaking on Sunday, North Zone captain Najmul Hossain Shanto said the tournament provides vital match practice ahead of the Pakistan series.
After missing out on the ICC T20 World Cup, the players returned to domestic action in the Odommo Bangladesh T20 Cup. They now shift focus to the one-day format ahead of Pakistan’s arrival for a three-match ODI series at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on 11, 13 and 15 March.
Several national players, including Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Litton Das, will feature in the BCL ODI tournament, which starts on Monday in Bogura and Rajshahi. On the opening day, North Zone meet East Zone in Bogura, while Central Zone face South Zone in Rajshahi.
North Zone captain Shanto believes the competition offers vital match practice before the Pakistan series.
“(For the Pakistan series) it’s a very good tournament for preparation. At the same time, some new cricketers might get the opportunity to play here. For those who are regularly performing in domestic cricket, it’s a big opportunity. For every cricketer, it’s a very good chance.”
Although Bangladesh usually stage international matches in Dhaka, Chattogram or Sylhet, this BCL edition will take place in Bogura and Rajshahi. Shanto expects both venues to produce competitive cricket.
“All four teams are very good. We’re playing at two very good venues where a lot of runs are scored and the wickets are sporting. From a preparation point of view, I think it’s a very good opportunity. If we can play this tournament well, we’ll be able to go into the Pakistan series with solid preparation.”
Litton Das, who has endured a difficult run in ODIs, remains part of Shanto’s squad. The right-hander has managed just 13 runs in his last eight one-day internationals, including four ducks. Despite that record, Shanto expressed full confidence in his team-mate.
“The way Litton Das has been playing T20s recently, and he has also been consistent in Tests. I don’t think there is much reason to worry about his ODI form. He is in very good shape, and as a captain, I am not worried at all that Litton is not in a good position in this format.”
“If you look at his recent Test and T20 batting, he’s been outstanding. I’m hopeful that he will deliver something good for the team. He certainly has that maturity, and his experience will help our team a lot.”
