As a result of Tamim Iqbal’s unexpected decision to step away from international cricket yesterday, Bangladesh has appointed Liton Das as the captain for the next two One-Day Internationals (ODIs) against Afghanistan. During the press conference, Liton was kind enough to answer a few questions on the Tamim scandal and the opener’s unexpected retirement, but at one point, he lost his composure because of the underlying context of the press event.
He said that he was pleased to represent Bangladesh in any capacity, including that of captain, whenever it was required.
Being the captain of Bangladesh is an honor that should be taken seriously. When I was captain in the past, I did all in my power to lead Bangladesh to victory in our matches. Since I have no other choice in this situation, you may be sure that I will give my best effort to succeed.
In the absence of his customary opening partner, Liton did not anticipate a significant shift in the dynamic of the performance.
When he was asked whether there was a detrimental influence on the team right now, he responded with “No.” He was there for the match before this one, but he won’t be there for the match after this one. If that hadn’t been the case, and he had really been injured, then we probably would have played a different squad instead. Therefore, I do not believe that a change such as that will occur, and I anticipate that everything would continue as before.
Liton eventually lost his patience as additional questions were asked, all of which were linked to Tamim’s retirement. At one point, a reporter asked the team whether they would want to jointly offer a send-off to the retiring Tamim, and Liton responded in the affirmative.
He inquired during the press conference, “Is this press conference about what is going to happen tomorrow?”
“Or else, it would be best for Liton Das to be absent from this gathering. Regarding these matters, you may contact either the president of the board or the head coach. I am here to speak about the game that will be played tomorrow,” he said quite emphatically.
Tomorrow, the Tigers will face Afghanistan in a match that will determine whether or not they advance, and his irritation was understandable given that the attention of the media was on what had happened the day before. After Liton’s comment, the next questions were all about the game that would take place the following day.
During the most of the press conference, the cricket player maintained a calm demeanor, even if there was a brief display of anger on his part. He responded with a grin when asked at the conclusion of the press conference if he was feeling any pressure as a result of being granted the leadership at a tough period with the club down 1-0 and having already lost the first game of the regular season.
“No, take it easy.”