Bangladesh captain Liton Das has acknowledged that the team’s recurring lower-order failures remain a serious concern following their T20I series against New Zealand.
Speaking at the post-match press conference after the series-deciding match, Liton admitted that Bangladesh are not getting the expected contributions from their lower-order batters — a shortcoming that continues to hurt the side in the demands of modern T20 cricket.
Bangladesh’s vulnerability was exposed again in the final game. After a shaky start and rain interruption, the batting line-up crumbled, leaving the middle and lower order with the responsibility of rebuilding. Although there were brief signs of resistance, the hosts failed to recover and were bowled out for 102 in 14.2 overs, losing their last seven wickets for just 39 runs in 35 deliveries — a collapse that ultimately proved decisive.
“In modern T20 cricket, you cannot depend solely on the top order,” Liton said. “If they fail, the lower order must step up. We had an opportunity today, but unfortunately it did not happen.”
Bangladesh went on to lose the rain-shortened match by six wickets, allowing New Zealand to level the three-match series 1-1 after the second game had been washed out.
Liton highlighted that all-rounders such as Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain and Mohammad Saifuddin are expected to make meaningful contributions with the bat, particularly in high-pressure situations. However, the trio managed only 12 runs collectively in the decisive encounter.
The skipper also stressed the importance of maintaining the right balance in T20 cricket, noting that teams cannot afford to weaken their bowling attack to add extra batting depth.
“You need at least five bowling options in this format. That means the players batting at seven or below must be capable of delivering with the bat,” he explained.
While candidly admitting the issue, Liton said there is no quick fix. He added that the coaching staff are working closely with the lower-order players, but translating performances from practice sessions into match situations remains a challenge.
“There is a significant difference between performing in the nets and performing in matches. If they can execute their skills in games, their confidence will naturally grow,” he said.
With major tournaments such as the ICC T20 World Cup on the horizon, Bangladesh face mounting pressure to address their lower-order fragility, which could prove costly against stronger opposition.
“If our lower order continues to struggle, it could seriously affect us in big tournaments. We must resolve this issue as soon as possible,” Liton concluded.