In a memorable turn of events before the second ODI between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, Mehidy Hasan Miraz took the toss and opted to bat first at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The Bangladesh captain attributed the decision to a need to take advantage of the conditions on the pitch as early as possible.

One of the biggest inclusions and exclusions in Bangladesh’s team is the absence of experienced batter Litton Das. In a surprise move, his place has been taken by Shamim Hossain by the team management. The Tigers have also decided to give rest to Taskin Ahmed, replacing him with Hasan Mahmud.

While Taskin impressed with a four-wicket haul in the series opener, his recent comeback from injury made the team decide to take it easy on him, given that the Asia Cup and other significant games are not far away.

Litton Das, however, is benched not for fitness issues but because of his extended slump in form. Getting out for a four-ball duck in the first ODI to Wanindu Hasaranga only continued an already concerning trend. In his past six ODI innings, Litton has mustered a combined aggregate of a mere six runs—averaging a woeful 1.00.

This disappointing performance probably resulted in him being left out, as Bangladesh would seek to solidify their middle order. Secondarily, the introduction of a left-handed batsman such as Shamim Hossain may be a strategic change in response to Sri Lanka’s spin pair – Hasaranga and Dunith Wellalage, who have performed extremely well against right-handers.

Bangladesh’s Playing 11 For 2nd ODI

Parvez Hossain Emon, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c), Jaker Ali (wk), Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Tanvir Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Hasan Mahmud