Captain vs Selectors: Litton outraged by Shamim’s omission

Bangla Press Desk:   Bangladesh T20I captain Litton Das launched a rare and pointed criticism at the selection panel led by Gazi Ashraf Hossain Lipu during a pre-series press conference in Chattogram on Wednesday, expressing strong dissatisfaction over the omission of left-handed middle-order batter Shamim Hossain from the squad for the Ireland T20Is.

Litton said he was not informed about Shamim’s exclusion or the inclusion of right-hander Mahidul Islam Ankon as his replacement.

“Of course it would’ve been better if he was here. But it’s not my call — it’s the selectors’ call. I wasn’t informed about Shamim being dropped,” he said when asked about the move. “I always thought a captain should know which player is coming in or going out. I don’t see a reason behind his exclusion. Whoever is in the 15-man squad is capable — still, yes, having Shamim would’ve been good.”

The skipper went further, suggesting his influence over squad decisions had been removed.

“I’ve been clearly told by the selectors and the board that I have to work with whichever team is given to me. So I no longer have a say on who I want or don’t want. I always believed a captain had a role in shaping the squad, but now it seems I just have to get the best out of the team I’m given.”

He stressed the need for better communication between the selection panel, head coach and captain.

“I won’t call it insulting, but yes, the coach and captain should be aware. We are not aware of anything. And if the same thing happens in the World Cup, I’ll still just work with the team I’m given.”

Litton pointed to Shamim’s impact in recent months, including his pivotal role in the T20I series win in Sri Lanka in July.

“It won’t disrupt the team, but it is disappointing. Not every player performs in every series. We tried to build a settled squad. Shamim gave us exactly what we needed in a few series. So yes, his exclusion is disappointing for him — and as captain, for me too. I’m sorry I couldn’t back him more when he struggled.”

He also questioned the cricketing logic behind leaving out a left-hander in a right-hand dominant middle order.

“Good point. I think we should consider this. In international cricket, you need right-handers and left-handers. The players we have now are the best at the moment, and whoever comes to the Bangladesh team arrives after proving they are the best. They will try to deliver.”

BP/SP