Bangladesh have confirmed a change to their batting order for the upcoming ODI series against Pakistan. Litton Das, a veteran right-hander, is set to bat at No.5 during the three-match series. The series commences on Wednesday.
Das Returns to Middle Order
Litton Das hasn’t batted at No.5 since the 2019 edition of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. Bangladesh coach Phil Simmons is hoping that the move to the middle-order will help the 31-year-old find some form in 50-over cricket.
Simmons said that Das is relaxed about the change and sees it as an opportunity to do what the team requires. According to Simmons, there was no need to convince Das about the move. Simmons stated all they asked was, “this is what the team needs”, and he was happy to do it.
Das previously made an enterprising innings of 94* when coming in at No.5 against the West Indies during the 2019 World Cup. Simmons believes the move back to this position will suit him.
Simmons highlighted the difficulty of keeping for 50 overs and then opening the batting. He also noted that Das is one of their better players of spin bowling. He added that the middle order has been one of their Achilles heels, so they hope his experience and skills will help.
Pakistan Look to New Talent
For Pakistan, the series in Bangladesh represents the first opportunity to show their capabilities since a disappointing campaign at the recent ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. They failed to reach the knockout stages.
Pakistan have six uncapped players in their squad that will face Bangladesh. Babar Azam is among the experienced players to miss selection. Head coach Mike Hesson sees the series as a great chance for the side’s up and coming stars to shine.
Hesson said they have got some fresh faces that have done well in the Shaheens. He stated they have earned the right to get some opportunities at the next level and that they are excited as a group to involve them. Hesson added that their challenge is adapting to the pitch quickly and that they have got to make sure they have a team ready to challenge Bangladesh in their own conditions.
Hesson said that their last two one-day series have been exceptional and that they have won both of those very convincingly. He stated that they played some good, solid cricket.
Key Points Ahead of the Series
- Litton Das moves to No. 5 for Bangladesh.
- Pakistan have six uncapped players in their squad.
- Babar Azam is not included in the Pakistan squad.
Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson sees the series as a great chance for the side’s up and coming stars to shine.