Middle overs have been one of our Achilles’ heels — Simmons Bangladesh team head coach Phil Simmons emphasized the importance of improving performance during the middle phase of ODI innings ahead of a crucial three-match series against Pakistan. The matches, scheduled for 11, 13, and 15 March at the Mirpur Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, will test the team’s ability to maintain consistency across the 50-over format. Simmons highlighted that the middle overs, a traditionally weak area for Bangladesh, require focused attention to maximize scoring opportunities. The coach acknowledged the team’s struggles in this phase, stating that it is a critical component of the game. “We’ve not been as good as we want to be in the middle overs,” Simmons said. “That’s one of the areas we’re going to be stressing a lot—how many runs, how many singles, how many boundaries we get.” He stressed the need to balance scoring with maintaining momentum, as the middle overs often determine the outcome of closely contested matches. To address this challenge, Bangladesh has reintroduced Litton Das and Afif Hossain in the middle order. Litton, who has previously excelled as an opener, will now bat at number five, while Afif may take the number six position. Simmons praised Litton’s ability to handle spin bowling, a skill that could prove vital in the middle overs. “He’s one of our better players against spin, and that would help down the middle,” the coach said. “With his experience and skills, hopefully, we can get what we need there.” Litton, however, has historically performed best in the top order, where he has scored all five of his ODI centuries. Simmons noted that the team did not need to convince Litton to adapt his role, as the player was willing to take on the responsibility.#pakistan #phil_simmons #litton_das #afif_hossain #mirpur_sher_e_bangla_national_cricke
Bangladesh confirm batting order change for Pakistan series Bangladesh coach Phil Simmons has announced that veteran right-hander Litton Das will open the batting order for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan. This marks a significant shift from his previous role as a middle-order batsman, with Simmons aiming to help Das regain his form in 50-over cricket. Das, who last batted at No.5 during the 2019 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, has struggled to score consistently in recent ODIs, with his last eight innings yielding no double figures. The coach believes the new position will provide the 31-year-old with the opportunity to contribute more effectively to the team's success. Simmons emphasized that Das has always been comfortable batting in any position, adding that the decision was made based on what the team needed. "He's a lot more relaxed with his game now, and he sees it as an opportunity to do what the team requires," the coach said. "We didn’t have to convince him for anything. All we asked was, 'this is what the team needs,' and he was happy to do it." Das, who previously captained the team, has consistently shown willingness to adapt for the greater good of the squad. The move to No.5 is also seen as a strategic effort to address Bangladesh's middle-order weaknesses. Simmons highlighted Das's experience and skills in dealing with spin bowling, noting that his presence in the middle order could strengthen the team's batting lineup. "It’s very difficult to keep going for 50 overs and then come in to open the batting," Simmons explained. "He’s also one of our better players of spin bowling. The middle order has been one of our Achilles’ heels, so having him there with his experience and skills could help us achieve what we need." Das’s past performance at No.#phil_simmons #litton_das #bangladesh_coach #pakistan_series #shere_bangla_national_cricket_stadium
Bangladesh Head Coach Phil Simmons Announces Litton Das to Bat at No. 5 in ODIs Against Pakistan Bangladesh head coach Phil Simmons has confirmed that Litton Das will open the batting order in the One Day International (ODI) series against Pakistan, starting on March 11. The decision comes after the team overhauled its middle order, with regulars Shakib Al Hasan and Mahmudullah no longer in the squad. Das, who has struggled to score consistently in ODIs since December 2023, is returning to the ODI side after a nine-month absence. Simmons highlighted Das’s ability to counter spin bowling as a key factor in the move. “First of all, it is very difficult to keep [wicket for] 50 overs and then come and open the batting,” Simmons said. “[Litton] is also one of our better players of spin bowling. The middle order has been one of our Achilles heels. So, him going down there with his experience and his skills, hopefully we can get what we need there.” Das’s inclusion at No. 5 marks a significant shift from his usual position in the top four. The wicketkeeper, who last batted at No. 5 during the 2019 ODI World Cup, has faced challenges in recent matches, failing to reach double figures in eight ODIs since December 2023. However, Simmons emphasized that Das’s adaptability and willingness to take on the role were not issues. “He has been comfortable batting anywhere,” Simmons said. “I think he’s a lot more relaxed with his game and he sees it as an opportunity to do what the team needs of him. We didn’t have to convince Litton for anything. All we asked was, ‘this is what the team needs,’ and he was happy to do it. He is happy to do anything for the team, when he is captain, he’s happy to do it for us now. So, we didn’t have to convince him for anything.#pakistan #phil_simmons #litton_das #bangladesh_cricket_team #one_day_international
