Cricket: Liton Das isn't worried about numbers anymore

[banglabhai420]

Liton Das feels he's reaping benefits after adopting a different approach to preparation. He's hit a purple patch since 2021 having accumulated 1100 runs in 13 Tests at an average of 52.38. After his 88 in the opening Test against Sri Lanka, he followed it up with 141 in the second to help Bangladesh recover from 24 for 5.

Bangladesh were in all sorts of trouble after opting to bat as Kasun Rajitha and Asitha Fernando nipped out the top order. Das collaborated with Mushfiqur Rahim (175*) to help the side recover and post a competitive score of 365. The trick for Das, for now, is to not look at the numbers.

"When I used to see (my statistics), I saw that I was on the backfoot. There was a challenge to move forward. I no longer see (my statistics) because I am more focused on going ahead. I don't know how far I can go," he said. "I have changed my training method. I think it is best left untold. It stays in the back of my mind that my team wants me to play a big innings. It helps me knowing that the team depends on me."

Liton also acknowledged the efforts put in by former South Africa batter - Ashwell Prince - in helping him improve as a Test player. "I know now the pattern of Test cricket, how long I should bat to get big runs. What he (Ashwell) explained to me, really helped me. I still follow those words," Das revealed.

"Where did I score my runs this year? Opportunities will come. When the senior players will not play, I will get my chance (to bat higher in the order). I don't see how I can bat up (now) and I am fine with where I am.

"Criticism is inevitable. People will praise you when you do well, they will criticise you when you don't do well. It is the same thing. They want me to perform, so these things no longer bother me. I am focused on my job, on my training. I am trying to keep myself well. If I don't try hard enough, I feel bad. I am just doing my job, the result is up to fate."

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