Bangladesh’s Litton Das has been forced to withdraw from the upcoming Asia Cup 2023 due to a bout of viral fever, dealing a blow to the team’s preparations. The opener, who has been a pivotal part of Bangladesh’s batting lineup and their leading run-scorer in ODIs since January 2022, will be sorely missed. Litton’s illness prevented him from joining the squad in Sri Lanka, and his recovery timeline remains uncertain.
In light of Litton’s unfortunate situation, Anamul Haque has been selected as his replacement in the team. The 30-year-old Anamul, known for his top-order batting and wicket-keeping skills, will provide a like-for-like option in the lineup. Anamul’s most recent ODI appearance for Bangladesh was in December 2022 against India. With 44 ODIs under his belt, he has accumulated 1254 runs at an average of 30.58, including three centuries and five half-centuries. Anamul has consistently batted as an opener or at the No. 3 position in these matches. He is set to bolster the team’s options as a backup wicket-keeper to Mushfiqur Rahim.
Minhajul Abedin, Chairman of the national selection panel, expressed the team’s confidence in Anamul’s abilities, stating, “He has been in the runs in domestic cricket and we have continued to monitor him in the Bangladesh Tigers programme. He was always in our consideration. Due to Litton’s unavailability, we needed a top-order batter who could keep wicket and Anamul got the nod.”
Litton Das’ absence could prove challenging for Bangladesh, as they strive to secure their first Asia Cup title. His consistent performances in ODIs have elevated him to the position of the team’s highest run-scorer since the beginning of 2022, amassing 878 runs in 25 innings at an impressive average of 41.80. During this period, Litton showcased his batting prowess with seven half-centuries and a century, with a notable highest score of 136 against Afghanistan in February of the previous year.
Bangladesh’s Asia Cup campaign is set to commence on August 31 against Sri Lanka in Pallekele. The team, placed in group B, will face the challenge of performing without Litton when they take on Afghanistan on September 3 in Lahore. The sudden change in lineup dynamics will undoubtedly test their adaptability and resilience as they pursue their aspirations in the tournament.