Bangladesh wicketkeeper-batsman Litton Das emphasized the need for his team to maintain their recent winning momentum in Test cricket to solidify their status as a competitive Test-playing nation.
In the past eight Tests, Bangladesh has secured five victories, including remarkable wins against top teams like New Zealand and Pakistan. The recent sweep against Pakistan in a two-match Test series has elevated the expectations of both fans and cricket experts, who are now looking for similar performances in upcoming encounters, particularly against India.
Litton sees the increasing expectations as a positive motivator rather than a source of pressure. Speaking after a training session at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, he said, "This expectation inspires us. If we perform well, people will recognize and respect us. I don't see it as pressure."
He also emphasized the need to move on from the Pakistan series and focus on future challenges. "We played well against Pakistan, but that's now in the past. It's important to look forward and prepare for upcoming matches without dwelling too much on past successes."
With a Test series against India on the horizon, Litton acknowledges the challenges ahead. India, known for their strength at home, will host Bangladesh in different cities, which adds to the difficulty. One of the key challenges, according to Litton, will be adapting to the SG ball used in India, which behaves differently compared to the Kookaburra ball they are more accustomed to.
"Playing with the SG ball will be tricky. It's easier to handle the new ball, but as it gets older, it becomes tougher to play. With the Kookaburra ball, the new ball is hard, but it softens over time, making it easier," Litton explained.
On a personal note, Litton reflected on his growth as a cricketer and the responsibility that comes with experience. His stellar performance in the second Test against Pakistan, where he scored a career-defining 138 to guide Bangladesh to a win, was a highlight of his career. However, he remains focused on the future and the areas where the team can improve, particularly in strengthening the top-order batting.
Litton's approach to batting, characterized by a mix of aggression and calculated shot selection, has been vital for Bangladesh in the longer format. "I don't always play aggressively, but if the ball is in my zone, I go for it. In today's game, scoring runs quickly has become essential," he added.
As Bangladesh continues to make strides in Test cricket, the team remains committed to refining their strategies and addressing weaknesses, with Litton playing a central role in both the batting and wicket-keeping departments.
With four centuries and 17 half-centuries in 43 Test matches, Litton's contributions have been crucial, and he believes the team's current form can lead to even greater achievements in the future.
