Liton Das Returns to Lead Bangladesh in T20 Series Against West Indies

Dhaka, 2 November 2025 — The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced the national squad for the first two matches of the three-match T20 International series against the West Indies, with captain Liton Kumar Das making his long-awaited return following a recovery from injury.

Liton Back in Command

Liton, who had been sidelined with a side strain, missed the closing stages of the Asia Cup and the subsequent T20 series against Afghanistan in the UAE. Now declared fully fit, the elegant right-hander is set to resume his leadership role, marking a crucial boost for Bangladesh ahead of a busy cricketing calendar.

“It’s great to have Liton back,” said a BCB source. “He brings experience and composure to the top order, and his leadership has been instrumental in shaping the team’s aggressive yet controlled approach.”

The return of Liton is expected to stabilise Bangladesh’s batting line-up, which struggled for consistency in his absence.

Changes in the Squad

The most notable exclusion is Mohammad Saifuddin, the all-rounder who played in both the Asia Cup and the Afghanistan series. Saifuddin has been rested as part of the board’s rotation policy, with selectors preferring a pace-heavy attack led by Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, and Shariful Islam.

Zaker Ali Onik, a promising wicketkeeper-batter, retains his place after impressive domestic performances, while Rishad Hossain, fresh from a record-breaking ODI series against the West Indies, continues to bolster the spin department.

Bangladesh T20 Squad

The T20 series will take place at Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium, Chattogram, with matches scheduled for 27th, 29th, and 31st October. The venue, known for its high-scoring surfaces and enthusiastic crowds, is expected to provide an ideal stage for Bangladesh’s home comeback following their away assignments.

Momentum Ahead of the T20 World Cup

The series carries significance beyond bilateral rivalry. It marks an important phase in Bangladesh’s preparation for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled for India and Sri Lanka. With several young players competing for permanent spots, selectors are viewing this series as a testing ground for the future core of the national side.

Head coach Chandika Hathurusingha commented:
“We are looking to fine-tune combinations. Having Liton back gives us balance, but it’s equally about giving exposure to players like Rishad and Tanzid, who represent the next generation of Bangladesh cricket.”

Bangladesh’s recent T20 performances have shown promise, particularly their victory over Afghanistan earlier this year, but consistency remains the key challenge. The West Indies series will therefore serve as both a confidence booster and a barometer of progress.

Historical Context: A Rivalry Renewed

Bangladesh and the West Indies share a competitive T20 rivalry. Since their first meeting in 2007, the two sides have faced each other 17 times, with the West Indies leading 10–7. However, Bangladesh’s recent home record has improved considerably, with the Tigers winning four of their last six T20 matches at home against major opponents.

The last time the two sides met in Bangladesh, in 2023, the hosts triumphed 2–1 in a thrilling series that saw emerging talents shine alongside established stars. The upcoming contests are expected to continue that pattern, blending youth with experience in a format that rewards boldness.

Liton’s Leadership and Bangladesh’s Future

Liton’s return as captain marks his third leadership stint in T20 cricket. Known for his calm temperament and ability to lead by example, he has gradually established himself as one of Bangladesh’s most reliable all-format players. His elegant stroke play, especially in the powerplay, has been crucial in setting foundations for the team.

Beyond his on-field contribution, Liton’s role in mentoring young batters such as Tawhid Hridoy and Tanzid Hasan Tamim has been widely praised by the coaching staff. His presence is expected to provide much-needed tactical clarity as Bangladesh experiment with new combinations ahead of next year’s World Cup.

Building Towards the Future

Bangladesh’s selectors have made it clear that the coming months will focus on developing a balanced side capable of adapting to various conditions. With an emphasis on spin depth, pace variety, and middle-order finishing, this series against the West Indies offers valuable insight into the team’s direction.

The inclusion of young leg-spinner Rishad Hossain, alongside experienced bowlers like Mustafizur Rahman and Taskin Ahmed, reflects a long-term vision aimed at achieving bowling versatility. Bangladesh’s domestic circuit has recently produced a new generation of multi-dimensional cricketers — and this squad, blending youth and maturity, is a clear reflection of that evolution.

Summary