Bangladesh wicketkeeper-batter Liton Das has withdrawn from the upcoming edition of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) after suffering an injury, ruling him out of the Sri Lankan franchise tournament before it begins. The decision comes as a setback for both the player and his franchise, Galle Gladiators, who had secured his services ahead of the competition.
Liton had already received the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) no-objection certificate (NOC), clearing him to participate in the tournament. In fact, the original plan was for him to travel to Sri Lanka instead of featuring in Bangladesh’s T20I series against Zimbabwe, despite being in a leadership role within the national side. Those plans, however, were derailed after he sustained an injury during the third One-Day International against Australia.
The injury has forced Liton into an extended spell on the sidelines. He had already been ruled out of Bangladesh’s T20I series against Australia and subsequently missed the ODI series against Zimbabwe. His withdrawal from the Lanka Premier League marks another disappointment in what has become an increasingly frustrating period for the experienced batter, who has struggled to maintain continuity because of recurring fitness concerns.
The Lanka Premier League is scheduled to begin on 17 July, with the final set to be played on 8 August. The tournament has established itself as one of South Asia’s leading domestic T20 competitions, regularly attracting a blend of Sri Lankan internationals and overseas stars. Strong performances in the LPL often provide players with valuable competitive exposure ahead of international assignments and other global franchise leagues.
Before Liton’s withdrawal, five Bangladeshi cricketers were expected to feature in this year’s competition. His absence reduces that number to four. Former Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan and fast bowler Taskin Ahmed were both signed directly by Jaffna Kings before the player draft, underlining their status as key overseas recruits. They will be joined in the tournament by all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz and pace bowler Hasan Mahmud, both of whom are also set to represent their respective franchises during the month-long competition.
For Liton, the immediate priority will now be rehabilitation and recovery. Bangladesh’s team management will hope the stylish right-handed batter regains full fitness in time for upcoming international commitments, where his experience at the top of the order and behind the stumps remains an important asset. His withdrawal is a disappointment for LPL supporters eager to see another Bangladeshi star in action, but it also reflects the importance of avoiding further aggravation of an injury that could affect his availability for future national team assignments.
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