Following a significant 16-run loss in the initial T20I encounter against the West Indies in Chattogram, Bangladesh aims to bounce back and level the three-game series with a victory in the second game today at the Bir Shrestha Shaheed Flight Lieutenant Motiur Rahman Cricket Stadium.
In light of the upcoming T20 World Cup set for February-March next year, the Litton Das-led squad not only seeks to salvage the series but also maintain momentum for their potential fifth consecutive T20I series triumph.
In the year 2025, Bangladesh secured triumph in 13 out of the 25 T20Is played, with one match resulting in a draw. Notably, their success rate shines brighter in games where they batted second, clinching victory in nine out of 15 matches and enduring defeat in only six, boasting a commendable 60 percent success rate.
While these statistics paint a positive picture, a deeper examination uncovers a concerning pattern that could pose challenges for the Tigers in the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Throughout this period, Bangladesh faced targets exceeding 150 runs seven times, managing victories in only two instances. An intriguing win surfaced when they chased down a modest 151 against Afghanistan in Sharjah last October.
Essentially, Bangladesh encountered difficulties whenever the target surpassed 150 runs. They notably stumbled in pursuit of a meager 136 against Pakistan in the Asia Cup, a match pivotal for securing a spot in the tournament final. This defeat spotlighted the team’s tendency to falter under pressure, even when faced with achievable totals.
Following their triumph in the ODI series on a spin-friendly Mirpur pitch tailored to their strengths, Litton expressed readiness for a different challenge in Chattogram, where pitches offer a true playing surface—a crucial preparatory phase ahead of the T20 World Cup.
Notably, Litton deviated from customary post-match pleasantries by publicly critiquing Shamim Hossain for his careless batting in the first ODI against the West Indies. During the presentation, he candidly emphasized the need for Shamim to “take responsibility” rather than merely enjoying his time at the crease.
While Litton’s bold approach in embracing tougher conditions and addressing a teammate’s deficiencies garners praise, he must also exhibit similar resolve in confronting the broader issue plaguing the team: their heavy reliance on bowlers to restrict opponents under the 150-run mark.
In an era where top teams breach the 300-run milestone and 250-plus totals are increasingly common even in T20 cricket, Bangladesh’s struggle to surpass 150 while chasing appears almost ironic. Nonetheless, it remains a stark reality that necessitates prompt attention if they aspire to remain competitive in the impending World Cup.