Litton doubtful for first West Indies Test

Bangladesh face uncertainty over the availability of wicketkeeper-batter Litton Das for the opening Test against West Indies after concerns over his hip injury resurfaced ahead of the two-match series.

Litton has been included in Bangladesh's 15-member squad for the first Test, which begins at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur on October 28. However, a recent report citing a member of the selection panel said the team could be without the experienced batter for the series opener.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board is expected to discuss his condition with the player and the medical staff before making a final decision. His participation in the second Test in Sylhet, scheduled to start on November 5, could also depend on his recovery.

The injury had already forced Litton to miss Bangladesh's recent ODI tri-series in the United Arab Emirates. He returned home for medical assessment after experiencing discomfort in his hip joint.

His possible absence would create a significant selection question for Bangladesh, as Litton offers both middle-order batting experience and wicketkeeping ability. He had made a strong impression in the one-off Test against Afghanistan earlier this month, scoring 53 in the first innings and 102 in the second.

Jaker Ali is another wicketkeeping option in the announced squad and could come into contention if Litton is unavailable. The team management would also need to consider how best to balance the batting order should a change become necessary.

Bangladesh have recalled fast bowler Taskin Ahmed for the opening Test, while pace bowler Nahid Rana has been left out as he continues his injury assessment. Najmul Hossain Shanto will lead the side, with Mehidy Hasan Miraz serving as vice-captain.

The uncertainty surrounding Litton comes at a delicate stage of Bangladesh's preparations. The hosts will want their batting combination settled before the first Test, particularly after their disappointing exit from the UAE tri-series.

No final decision on Litton's availability has been confirmed in the reports available. Bangladesh's medical assessment and the team management's subsequent decision will determine whether he can take the field in Mirpur.