Litton Das unlikely for BAN vs AUS first T20I (Source: AFP)
In a significant development, Bangladesh have been dealt a major injury concern just before the start of their three-match T20I series against Australia. The series is scheduled to begin in Chattogram on June 17, with the remaining matches set to be played on June 19 and June 21.
It is important to note that Bangladesh captain Litton Das is doubtful for the opening match of the BAN vs AUS T20I series (as per Cricbuzz). The injury scare comes shortly after Bangladesh secured a historic ODI series victory over Australia.
How was Litton Das Injured?
Litton Das picked up the injury while batting in the third ODI against Australia on June 14. The Bangladesh skipper was looking in good form and appeared comfortable at the crease before he suddenly experienced discomfort in his leg during his innings.
It is vital to note that the wicketkeeper-batter was forced to leave the field after scoring 48 runs and retired hurt. Despite the setback, Litton showed determination and returned to the crease after receiving treatment.
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He completed his innings and went on to score 58 runs off 78 balls at a strike-rate of 74.36. However, the injury continued to trouble him even after he finished batting.
As a result, Litton was unable to continue on the field and did not take up wicketkeeping duties during Australia's chase. Nurul Hasan stepped in behind the stumps for the remainder of the match.
Initial reports suggest that Litton may have suffered a leg muscle tear, though the extent of the injury has yet to be confirmed.
"The 33-year-old Soumya adds valuable experience to the squad, having scored 1,462 runs in 87 T20 Internationals for Bangladesh. He was part of Bangladesh's ODI squad against Australia and now returns to the T20 setup," BCB said in a statement.
Who Will Replace Litton Das In BAN vs AUS T20I series?
It is worth noting that the BCB has included Soumya Sarkar in the squad for the upcoming T20I series.
The decision was taken as a precautionary measure while the team awaits a clear update on the captain’s condition. Soumya was already part of Bangladesh’s ODI squad against Australia and has now been recalled to the T20I setup.
The 33-year-old has represented Bangladesh in 87 T20Is and scored 1,462 runs in the format at a strike-rate of 122.13. His experience could prove important if Litton Das is unable to take part in the series opener.
Bangladesh Wait For Final Medical Clearance On Litton Das
The Bangladesh captain Litton Das is under observation ahead of the first T20I, and his availability will depend on the results of further medical assessments.
According to reports, a scan was scheduled to determine the severity of the injury and whether he can return to action for the first T20I between Bangladesh and Australia.
According to the same reports, the Bangladesh management does not want to take any unnecessary risks regarding Litton Das’s injury.
Bangladesh's updated squad for T20I series vs Australia: Litton Kumar Das (captain), Parvez Hossain Emon, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Mohammad Saif Hassan, Shamim Hossain, Towhid Hridoy (vice-captain), Nurul Hasan Sohan, Mahedi Hasan, Nasum Ahmed, Rishad Hossain, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana, Abdul Gaffar Saqlain and Soumya Sarkar.
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