Mohammad Salahuddin, the former Bangladesh assistant coach and current head of the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s High Performance Unit, stated on Sunday that it is crucial for Litton Das to participate in the warm-up match to help him adapt to conditions ahead of the opening Test against Australia. The warm-up fixture against Cricket Australia XI is scheduled for August 6-8, leading into the first Test in Darwin on August 13. Although Litton was initially left out of the squad due to a left calf injury that sidelined him since June, he was added back in the final stages after showing sufficient recovery. The BCB confirmed he has responded well to his rehabilitation program, making him available for the Darwin Test.
Salahuddin told reporters at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium that while a Test match might not be played at high intensity, Litton needs to test his fitness. He noted that in a Test, a wicket-keeper might not have to sprint 80–90 times, and the pace of running between the wickets is generally slower. He believes if Litton can bat and run reasonably well, bringing an experienced player into the squad is justified. Because he has been out of matches for nearly 45 days, Salahuddin stressed that adaptation is very crucial. He warned that going straight into a Test match without the warm-up could cause difficulty, making the practice match essential for his preparation.
Regarding the wider team, Salahuddin expressed optimism, stating that he feels those who play in the Test squad are aware of themselves, know their goals well, and are very organised. He sees no reason why they would not do well. Given their desire and goals, they think very positively. He added that since they are experienced, if the team can perform well in a few of the four away Tests and win the remaining four matches at home, they can finish in the top one, two, or three.
Salahuddin also highlighted wicketkeeper-batter Jaker Ali, who returned to the squad after last playing against Sri Lanka in June 2025. Given Jaker's character, he thinks he thrives under pressure. As a cricketer, he is a great fighter who knows how to battle and understands his role well. Salahuddin noted that Jaker is effective at batting with tailenders, a role he has proven many times, and the team needs such a player in that position. Finally, Salahuddin mentioned the team would miss Nahid Rana, who was ruled out due to injury. He admitted he would have been thrilled to see Rana bowling bouncers at the Australian batters, but noted there is no point in regretting it now. He remains confident that the other bowlers will do very well if they bowl with intelligence.
