Simmons confident in Litton’s leadership despite batting slump

Bangladesh head coach Phil Simmons has praised Litton Das's leadership in the ongoing T20I series against the West Indies, despite the opener's struggles with the bat.

While Litton's form remains a concern, Simmons believes the wicketkeeper-batsman will regain his touch soon and has commended his ability to guide the team effectively in Najmul Hossain Shanto's absence.

Litton, leading the side for the first time in this series, has overseen a historic achievement as Bangladesh secured their first T20I series win against the West Indies in six years.

The series-clinching victory came after two well-contested matches, but the focus now shifts to the final game, set for 6:00 am Bangladesh time on 20 december, where Simmons hopes the team can end on a high note.

Speaking to the media, Simmons was full of praise for Litton's decision-making on the field.

"Litton has made some excellent decisions in the last two matches. He has embraced his role as a leader very well. It's a concern that he hasn't been scoring runs, but not every player performs every day. Players prepare to do well, and I hope he can bounce back in the final match," said the head coach.

Reflecting on the team's overall performance, Simmons highlighted the significance of bouncing back after a disappointing ODI series, where Bangladesh were whitewashed.

"The ODI and T20 teams are slightly different, with some players joining only for the T20s. After the ODI series loss, the players were determined to improve. Even though we played well in ODIs, they've been even better in this series," he noted.

Simmons believes the ODI failures provided the team with valuable lessons.

"I think the ODI performances gave the players confidence to perform against this opposition, even though the format is entirely different. The way we've won these matches wasn't predictable, and credit must go to the players. Especially after the ODI defeat, they've shown remarkable resilience," he added.

The coach also expressed optimism about ending the T20I series on a winning note.

"Before every match, I believe we can win. Even after losing all the ODIs, we discussed strategies to succeed here. We did that before the first match, the second, and now we'll do the same for the third. This team has the ability to win," said Simmons.

Simmons also touched on the wicket conditions in the first two matches.

"The pitch was very good on the first day. Today (18 december), it became harder to bat as the game progressed. Still, it was a competitive match. Both teams played on the same surface, and while it offered some turn, it wasn't exactly a 130-run wicket," he remarked.

Additionally, he lauded Shamim Hossain's performances in the series, which earned him a Player of the Match award in the second game.

"Shamim's performance has been outstanding. He has proven himself in both matches and even shown his capabilities during practice sessions. It's encouraging to see him understand his role and execute it so well," Simmons said.

With confidence in Litton's leadership and the team's growing momentum, Simmons hopes Bangladesh can cap off the series with a clean sweep.

"We've already won the series, which is the most important thing, but we want to finish with another victory. Heading home with a smile after winning the final match would be perfect," concluded the head coach.