Exclusive: Coach Salahuddin Backs Litton Das, Targets Long-Term Growth for Bangladesh T20 Side

Bangladesh senior assistant coach Mohammad Salahuddin believes his biggest challenge is instilling self-belief in his players — the key to unlocking consistent performances on the international stage.

The Tigers are currently in Dubai preparing for a two-match T20I series against hosts UAE, which marks the beginning of a critical phase leading up to the Asia Cup later this year and the ICC T20 World Cup in 2026.

They held their first training session on May 16 at the Sharjah International Cricket Stadium. The matches are scheduled for May 17 and 19.

Following this series, Bangladesh will head to Pakistan for a five-match T20I series. The first three matches are set to take place in Faisalabad on May 27, 29 and June 1, with the final two games scheduled in Lahore on June 3 and 5.

CONSISTENCY THE BIGGEST MISSING PIECE

Salahuddin, who took up his current role in November 2024, told SportsBoom in an exclusive interview that Bangladesh’s biggest struggle is maintaining a steady performance curve.

“We have to admit that we are not consistently performing at the highest level, and that's a big challenge,” he told SportsBoom.com. 

“We haven't performed collectively — and more importantly, consistently — and that’s the reason for the rapid ups and downs in our results.”

The experienced coach emphasized that his role is to guide players, but real change depends on their mental and physical commitment.

“We want improvement in skills and fitness. The coach’s job is to show the way — they are the ones who have to perform on the ground,” he said. 

“As a coach, the biggest challenge for me is to make them believe they can dominate world cricket.”

UAE SERIES A STEP IN LONG-TERM T20 ROADMAP

Despite public perception, Salahuddin does not see the UAE series as the definitive start of Bangladesh’s preparation for upcoming tournaments. Instead, he views it as part of a broader, long-term development plan.

“Look, it’s not possible for anyone to achieve results overnight. Our goal is to improve gradually and aim for success in the big tournaments. We are preparing ourselves with that mindset,” he explained.

“One or two top-level results don’t define the direction of our cricket. We face many challenges and limitations, and I believe our players are ready to make the necessary sacrifices.”

He also called for a shared sense of accountability.

“The management must be willing to make sacrifices too. Our players are giving their best and are committed to improving. Yes, there are limitations, and we are partly responsible for them. Now, it’s our duty to overcome those limitations,” he added.

SALAHUDDIN BACKS LITTON DAS TO THRIVE AS T20I CAPTAIN

Salahuddin offered strong backing for Litton Das, who was recently appointed Bangladesh's T20I captain, highlighting his tactical nous and leadership qualities.

“Litton is a good tactician. He understands how to manage a T20 game — from field placements to handling bowlers and setting the tone with the bat,” said Salahuddin.

“He has the credentials to lead — he inspires the team and makes smart decisions under pressure. He is still learning how to lead from the front, and that’s part of the journey. A captain must guide the team both tactically and emotionally."

As Bangladesh enter a crucial stretch in T20 cricket, the tone set by Salahuddin is clear: short-term success is not the end goal. Instead, the focus is on long-term growth, mental toughness, and internal belief.

For a team that has struggled to convert potential into sustained performances, this new chapter under Salahuddin’s guidance and Litton’s leadership offers a chance to rebuild — not just in terms of results, but in attitude.