Bangladesh wicketkeeper-batter Litton Das delivered an impressive performance against Afghanistan in the one-off Test in Abu Dhabi, combining a century with a record-breaking contribution behind the stumps.
Litton scored 102 runs in Bangladesh's second innings, helping his team declare at 372 for seven and set Afghanistan a target of 479. He also reached 9,000 international runs across Tests, ODIs and T20Is, becoming the fifth Bangladesh batter to achieve the milestone.
Litton Das Sets Bangladesh Wicketkeeping Record
Litton recorded eight dismissals during the Test, setting a new Bangladesh record for the most dismissals by a wicketkeeper in a single Test match. He surpassed the previous national record of seven, held by former Bangladesh wicketkeeper Khaled Mashud.
His contribution behind the stumps included catches and a stumping during Afghanistan's first innings, followed by further catches in the second innings. The performance highlighted his importance to the team in both batting and wicketkeeping.
Litton also moved closer to the men's Test record for the most dismissals by a wicketkeeper in a single match. The record stood at 11, jointly held by Jack Russell, AB de Villiers and Rishabh Pant.
Century Marks Return to Form
Litton's century was particularly significant after a difficult run with the bat. He had recorded four ducks in five recent international innings before producing a strong response in Abu Dhabi.
After scoring 53 in Bangladesh's first innings, he followed it with 102 from 117 balls in the second innings. His knock included 14 fours and helped Bangladesh establish a commanding position.
Litton also shared a crucial 149-run partnership for the seventh wicket with Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who contributed an unbeaten 52. Their stand strengthened Bangladesh's position and gave the team a substantial lead.
Bangladesh Build a Strong Position
Bangladesh scored 346 in their first innings, establishing a 106-run lead after Afghanistan were dismissed for 240.
The hosts then declared their second innings at 372 for seven, setting Afghanistan a target of 479 runs to win.
Afghanistan reached 132 for three at the end of the fourth day, leaving Bangladesh in a strong position as the match entered its final stage.
The sizeable target put pressure on Afghanistan's batting lineup, while Bangladesh had an opportunity to push for victory.
Conclusion
Litton Das made a significant contribution with both bat and gloves against Afghanistan. His century helped Bangladesh set a challenging target, while his eight dismissals established a new national wicketkeeping record in men's Test cricket.
Reaching 9,000 international runs added another milestone to his career. His performance in Abu Dhabi demonstrated his value to Bangladesh and placed him among the key figures in the Test match.
