Litton sees Asian Games as a rare opportunity to achieve a big dream

Sports Desk

For Bangladeshi cricketers, the Asian Games have brought an opportunity that is not usually available amidst the busy international schedule and franchise leagues — a unique opportunity to win gold for the country.

The excitement and sense of responsibility were clear in captain Liton Das’ voice before the team left on Wednesday. The Bangladesh captain now has his eyes only on the final before the men’s T20 campaign begins in Japan.

While sharing his expectations for the team, Liton told the media, “There will always be expectations.”

“Franchise leagues or bilateral series happen all the time, but the Asian Games is a rare opportunity. All the players are very excited to achieve this dream achievement.”

Earlier, Bangladesh won gold in men’s cricket at the Asian Games in Guangzhou in 2010. Of course, the big Test-playing teams did not send their best teams. But this time, the picture is completely different, teams like India and Pakistan are entering the field with strong squads. Bangladesh is focusing on its own performance without thinking too much about the opponent.

Liton made his goal clear, “Our main goal is to reach the final and win gold.”
The men’s cricket competition starts on September 24. Bangladesh has got the opportunity to play directly in the quarterfinals with India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The Tigers will take the field in the quarterfinals on September 29.

According to Liton, the tournament could also be a stepping stone to a bigger stage. Cricket is returning to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where only six teams will be allowed to participate. As a result, the battle to qualify will be extremely tough.

Liton did not hide his excitement about the Olympics, “Who wouldn’t want to play in the Olympics? But our main focus at the moment is the Asian Games. We want to keep playing and advance to the final.”

He believes that this campaign on Japanese soil will be positive not only for cricket but also for the entire sports sector of the country.
“It is a matter of destiny to do something meaningful for the country through sports. If we can do well here and make it easier to get an Olympic ticket, it will bring benefits to all other sports in Bangladesh as well,” added Liton.