Fresh off their historic 2-0 win over Pakistan, Bangladesh is gearing up for another overseas tour, this time to India for two Test matches starting next week. One of the standout performers from the Rawalpindi Test, Litton Das, shared insights into the team’s preparations, highlighting their adjustment to the SG ball, which is a change from their usual Kookaburra.
Bangladesh typically plays with the Kookaburra ball, including in their recent Tests against Pakistan. However, since India uses SG balls for their Test matches, the team has been working to adapt to the differences. "The ball will be different in India," Litton explained, noting that the SG ball behaves differently, especially when it gets older. He added that while the Kookaburra becomes easier to handle as it ages, the SG ball does the opposite, becoming tougher to play.
As the team prepares for the Tests, their white-ball players are practicing with Kookaburra balls in anticipation of the T20 series that will follow the Tests. Despite the recent success against Pakistan, Litton urged the team to focus on the future rather than dwell on past victories. Although his century in the second Test played a crucial role in the historic win, he asked the media not to bring up the Pakistan series. "We played good cricket against Pakistan, but that's behind us now," Litton said, emphasising the need to look ahead.
Bangladesh’s back-to-back series against India and Pakistan is a rare occurrence, with the last instance happening in 2015. However, this time, both series are being played overseas. While Litton acknowledged the expectations from fans, he refused to see it as added pressure. "It’s inspiring to know people will recognise you if you perform well," he said, adding that Bangladesh’s goal is to continue improving in Tests and build consistency in the format.
Litton's role as a lower-middle-order batter often sees him paired with the tail, forcing him to play more aggressively. However, his marathon six-hour innings in Rawalpindi demonstrated his ability to adapt when needed. "I have to take responsibility now," he reflected, noting that with his ten years of experience, it’s important to take advantage of scoring opportunities while balancing the risks.
He acknowledged that his natural attacking style might lead to more chances of getting out, but it also opens up more scoring opportunities. "If I don't play my shots, the team's score won't progress," he said, adding that he aims to maintain the same approach he uses in practice.
Bangladesh is set to depart for India on September 15, with the two Tests taking place in Chennai (September 19-23) and Kanpur (September 27-October 1). These matches are part of the World Test Championship, followed by three T20Is in Gwalior (October 6), Delhi (October 9), and Hyderabad (October 12).