Shanto backs Liton to get back to runs in ODI format

Najmul Hossain Shanto has backed his teammate Liton Das to regain form in the ODI format through the upcoming Bangladesh Cricket League (BCL) one-day tournament.

Liton will play the tournament as part of the North Zone squad, which will be led by Shanto.

"The way Liton is playing T20Is and performing regularly in Tests, he doesn't need to worry about his ODI form," Shanto said. "I believe his good form in other formats will help him get back among the runs in ODIs."

Liton, who also captains Bangladesh in T20Is, has not scored a fifty in ODIs since his 66 against India in Pune during the 2023 World Cup. He has managed just 45 runs in his last eight ODIs, including four ducks.

Despite this lean patch, Shanto expressed complete confidence in his teammate.

"I am not worried at all as a captain. His experience and maturity will definitely help the team, and I believe he will contribute positively."

Shanto believes the tournament will play a key role in preparing the team for the upcoming Pakistan series.

"This tournament is a great preparation opportunity for us. Along with new players, cricketers who have done well in domestic cricket will also get a platform to prove themselves," he said.

"The standard of competition will be high, as four strong teams will play at two quality venues that are sporting and friendly for both batters and bowlers. These wickets are ideal for preparation. If we do well here, we can carry that confidence into the Pakistan series."    �"BSS