Dhaka:Bangladesh captain Liton Das is determined for his team to reach the final of the Asian Games cricket competition and contend for the gold medal, while also looking toward future opportunities for the sport.
According to United News of Bangladesh, cricket is set to return to the Olympics at the 2028 Los Angeles Games, and Liton views Bangladesh's participation in the Asian Games as a stepping stone for cricket's development. This year, Bangladesh is sending its national team to the Asian Games instead of a second-string side, and it will be Litonfirst appearance at this multi-sport event.
Liton expressed the significance of playing for the national team and the excitement of competing in a prestigious tournament at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. He emphasized the unique chance to win a gold medal, which he described as a big dream shared by all the cricketers.
Traditionally, Bangladesh has relied on cricket for medals at the Asian Games. Recently, the women team lost to Pakistan in the bronze-medal match, leaving the menteam as the primary hope for a cricket medal. Liton noted the rarity of such events compared to franchise leagues or national tournaments, fueling the players' enthusiasm to achieve their dream.
For now, the immediate goal is to reach the final. Liton emphasized the importance of taking it one match at a time, reiterating the team's focus on progressing step by step.
Looking ahead to the 2028 Olympics, six men's cricket teams will participate, with Bangladesh competing against New Zealand, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka for a spot. Qualifying criteria include the highest-ranked team from each continent, with the United States automatically qualifying if they rank within the top 15 ICC T20 teams and one additional spot decided by a qualifying tournament.
Liton also expressed hope that success in cricket could help elevate other sports in Bangladesh, highlighting the importance of contributing to the nation through sporting achievements.