Litton paints the sombre picture that prevails

It seems as if nothing happening on the pitch is significant enough to overshadow the events unfolding off it.

Yesterday, the Sylhet Titans secured a thrilling three-wicket victory in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) Eliminator, knocking Rangpur Riders out of the tournament. Chris Woakes, signed specifically for the playoffs, propelled Sylhet into Qualifier 2 by hitting a six off the final delivery of a low-scoring contest in Mirpur.

Normally, such an intense finish would be the primary talking point after the game. Instead, an unpleasant reality emerged during the post-match press conference when Bangladesh T20I and Rangpur skipper Litton Das painted a sombre picture of helplessness regarding the national team’s participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup, set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7.

“Are you sure we are going to play in the World Cup?” Litton, visibly displeased with Rangpur’s result – and perhaps the overall uncertainty that prevails – questioned back when asked whether the type of pitches used in the BPL is ideal preparation for the T20 World Cup.

Bangladesh’s World Cup participation currently hangs by a thread due to an impasse between the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC). This follows the BCB's request to play their World Cup matches outside of India, citing security concerns.

The tension began over a fortnight ago when Mustafizur Rahman was dropped by the Indian Premier League franchise Kolkata Knight Riders on instruction from the Board of Control for Cricket in India due to political friction between the two nations. This geopolitical standoff now appears to be weighing heavily on the players' mental preparation.

“There is still a long time before the World Cup. We aren't even sure if we are going yet,” Litton remarked. “But I can say this much: this is not an ideal wicket for T20s. I don’t know if it’s [meant for preparation] for the World Cup or not. I expected a better wicket for a qualifier [eliminator] match.”

When asked if the BCB had communicated with him or sought his opinion since their January 4 decision not to send the team to India, Litton’s response was a flat “no.” He added, “I don't know, but it [communication] hasn't happened with me,” when pressed on whether such a dialogue should have occurred.

The exchange highlights the uncertainty within the BCB, revealing that even the primary stakeholders – the cricketers – remain in the dark regarding their World Cup fate.

“Look at the situation; many things in life are not ideal. But when a certain time comes, you have to accept it. We played many T20 matches in the BPL – the [scheduling] wasn't ideal either. But we have to play. What can I say now?” Litton added.

However, the T20 skipper remained tight-lipped when asked about the players’ collective stance on the BCB’s refusal to travel to India, offering only a brief “no comment.” He did note, however, that the 14-day gap between the BPL final on January 23 and the start of the World Cup provides “a lot of opportunity for our mental thinking.”

As Litton exited the room, he requested those present not to “take any offense” at his answers. Yet, the interaction only deepened the impression that has gripped the country’s cricket for the last 17 days: one of profound uncertainty and helplessness.