Liton Das Returns in New Middle-Order Role

Bangladesh’s national cricket team has recalled experienced batsman Liton Das to the 50-over squad for the upcoming three-match One Day International (ODI) series against Pakistan, scheduled to begin on Wednesday, 11 March, at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.

Unlike his usual role as an opener, Liton is set to play in the middle order, a strategic decision by the team management to strengthen the lineup following the ODI retirements of seasoned players Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah Riyad. Senior assistant coach Mohammad Salahuddin emphasised the team-first approach:

"The interests of the team come before individual preferences. We believe Liton has the ability to adapt and deliver in the middle order."

As part of his preparation, Liton was seen batting at number five in a practice match against the Bangladesh Cricket League (BCL) All Stars, where he showcased his adaptability and experience.

Liton is not new to batting in the middle order on the international stage. During the 2019 ODI World Cup, he played a notable 90-run innings against the West Indies from a middle-order position, demonstrating his capability to handle pressure in crucial situations.

Although Liton had been out of ODI consideration since July of last year, he has remained a regular feature in Bangladesh’s T20 setup, playing 30 recognised T20 matches. In this format, he has scored 696 runs at an average of 25.77, with a strike rate of 130.58, including five half-centuries—underlining his consistent form in the shorter format.

Pakistan, meanwhile, has already arrived in Dhaka with a 15-member squad. The ODI series is scheduled as follows:

The series represents a crucial opportunity for Bangladesh to test the adaptability of its batting lineup and integrate experienced players like Liton Das in new roles. Cricket analysts anticipate that his presence in the middle order could provide the stability needed to navigate Pakistan’s formidable bowling attack.