Tri-series puts Litton’s leadership in focus

Litton Das finally takes his first test as Bangladesh’s ODI captain almost three months after taking over the role from Mehidy Hasan Miraz, with a tri-series involving Zimbabwe and Afghanistan getting underway.

Bangladesh face Zimbabwe in the opening match of the tournament, which will test not only Litton’s leadership but also his side’s ability to handle the pressure of a multi-nation event.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board handed the reins to Litton despite Miraz’s success, placing greater emphasis on how the team achieved results with the 2027 ODI World Cup in sight.

Litton’s individual performance previously worked against Miraz, while Litton recently struck a fifty and a century in the one-off Test against Afghanistan in the UAE, bouncing back from a lean patch.

With a record of three wins and three losses from seven matches as stand-in captain, Litton’s tactical acumen and field placements have earned him the permanent role.

The tri-series brings into focus the team's biggest assignment ahead: the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, where Litton has a year to prepare his squad.

Bangladesh will also play the Asia Cup in June next year and an ODI series in South Africa later this year to assess conditions well in advance.

Following today’s opener, Bangladesh will face Afghanistan on Wednesday, with the final scheduled for Friday as Litton looks to establish clarity and confidence.