MUMBAI: Bangladesh’s ODI team gets a makeover with the return of Litton Das, fast bowler Nahid Rana, and Shariful Islam for the high-stakes three-match series against Pakistan, scheduled from March 11 in Mirpur.
Chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain revealed the selections were driven by the urgent need to stabilize the middle order, where several contenders fell short. Afif Hossain’s recall injects proven nous, while Mahedi Islam Bhuiyan earns a fresh opportunity. ‘Afif was never out of our plans; his experience and current form make him ideal,’ Ashraf remarked.
Litton Das enters despite a prolonged slump—zero fifties in eight outings post-December 2023—but his vast ODI know-how (near 100 games) can’t be discounted. Selectors trust his ongoing technical tweaks with coaches will unlock his potential, especially as a middle-order anchor. Soumya Sarkar’s red-hot streak provides further optimism.
Fast bowling takes a hit with Hasan Mahmud’s elbow recovery and Tanjim Sakib’s back trouble, though both should return soon.
Complete squad: Mehidy Hasan Miraz (capt), Soumya Sarkar, Saif Hasan, Tanjheed Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Litton Das, Afif Hossain, Mahedi Hasan Bhuiyan, Rishad Hossain, Tanvir Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Shariful Islam, Nahid Rana.
This revamped unit aims to challenge Pakistan assertively, with returning stars pivotal to success in this pivotal encounter.