Litton Das to Lead Bangladesh in UAE and Pakistan T20I Series Amid Criticism Over Form

Bangladesh is set to play T20I series against the United Arab Emirates and Pakistan later this month, with Litton Das leading the side in both assignments. Litton, who has recently been appointed Bangladesh's T20I captain until the 2026 World Cup, has come under scrutiny due to his poor run of form with the bat.

Despite the criticism, Bangladesh's Assistant Coach Mohammad Salahuddin defended the decision to back Litton as captain during a press conference today. Salahuddin faced a flurry of questions regarding Litton's form and leadership credentials and responded with firm support.

“Look, this isn't about a ‘Salahuddin-Litton partnership’. When someone captains the Bangladesh team, they are leading the whole country. We must recognize that," said Salahuddin. "Some of you might not like the decision, or get upset if certain players are chosen as captain—but captaining Bangladesh is not an easy task. It’s a very difficult job and it requires our collective support.”

Backing Litton’s leadership abilities, Salahuddin added, “He possesses all the qualities a captain needs—whether it's motivating the team or strategizing. He’s making every effort to take the team forward. A captain leads from the front, not the board or the coaching staff. We are here only as support systems. If given the freedom, Litton will perform well. Leadership is not something that can be manufactured; it’s an innate trait—and not everyone has it.”

The assistant coach emphasized the moral responsibility of supporting a national captain, regardless of personal opinions or external criticism. “We need to remember that a captain represents the entire nation and carries immense pressure. Supporting him is our moral responsibility. And for those who think captaining Bangladesh is easy from the outside—you’re in the wrong realm,” Salahuddin concluded.