Bangladesh made a significant change to their squad for the ongoing 3-match ODI series against Sri Lanka by omitting Litton Das due to his disappointing performances as a wicketkeeper-batter. Das’ inconsistent form led to his exclusion from the team, as selectors opted for a reshuffle to bolster their lineup. The decision to drop Das reflects the team’s determination to address issues and field the most competitive squad possible to confront Sri Lanka in the remaining matches of the series.
Litton Das’s Failure in the Series:
Litton Das endured a challenging start in the first two ODIs of the series held at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram, failing to score in both matches. His dismissals on both occasions came at the hands of left-arm fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka.
Furthermore, in the concurrent T20I series at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, Das struggled to reach double-digit scores in two out of three matches. The recurring pattern of low scores prompted Bangladesh to drop him from the squad, seeking alternatives to fortify their batting lineup for upcoming matches against Sri Lanka.
Jaker Ali as a Replacement:
Meanwhile, Bangladesh has included Jaker Ali Anik in their squad for the third and decisive ODI scheduled for Monday, March 18. Gazi Ashraf Hossain, Chairman of the National Selection Panel, emphasized that Anik’s addition aims to provide the team with additional “options” and “flexibility.”
This strategic move reflects the selectors’ intent to explore different combinations and strengthen the team’s resources for the crucial encounter against Sri Lanka. Anik’s inclusion underscores Bangladesh’s commitment to adaptability and strategic planning in their cricketing endeavors.
Gazi Ashraf Hossain said, “ With the series now hanging in the balance, we believe Jaker Ali’s addition will provide the team with more options and flexibility in the middle order.”
Anik’s Performance:
Anik made his mark with Comilla Victorians in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2024 before showcasing his talent in the T20I series against Sri Lanka. Despite Bangladesh’s loss in one of the T20Is, Anik’s standout performance saw him score a blistering 68 runs off 34 balls, featuring 4 fours and 6 sixes. Following his T20I exploits, Anik featured in two matches for Abahani Limited in the Dhaka Premier Division League Cricket.
Having played 84 List A matches, Anik boasts a commendable record, amassing 1918 runs at an average of 34.87, including 2 centuries and 9 fifties. In the ongoing ODI series against Sri Lanka, Bangladesh secured victory in the first encounter, courtesy of Najmul Hossain Shanto’s remarkable century, propelling them to a six-wicket win. However, Sri Lanka bounced back strongly in the second ODI, clinching a thrilling victory by 3 wickets.
Despite Bangladesh’s competitive total of 287, Sri Lanka chased it down with 17 balls to spare, showcasing their resilience and batting prowess. As Bangladesh prepares for the final ODI, the inclusion of Anik adds depth and versatility to their squad, providing them with more options and flexibility in their quest for victory.
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