Litton sees Asian Games as rare chance to chase bigger dream

For Bangladesh’s cricketers, the Asian Games represent something their packed international and franchise calendars rarely offer -- a chance to chase a gold medal for the country.

That sense of occasion was evident in captain Litton Das’s words on Wednesday, as Bangladesh prepare to begin their men’s T20 campaign in Japan with their sights set firmly on the final.

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“Expectations will always be there,” Litton told reporters before the team’s departure. 

“Franchise leagues and bilateral series happen frequently, but the Asian Games is a rare opportunity. All players are extremely excited to fulfil this dream.”

Bangladesh won the men’s cricket gold at the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou, when the major Test-playing nations did not send their strongest sides. This time, with India and Pakistan among the teams fielding strong squads, the challenge is considerably different. Bangladesh, however, are choosing to look inward rather than dwell on the opposition.

“The ultimate target is to reach the final and win the gold medal,” Litton said.

The men's cricket tournament begins on September 24, with Bangladesh entering directly at the quarterfinal stage on September 29. The Tigers are among the teams that received direct entry alongside India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

For Litton, the tournament also offers a potential bridge to an even bigger stage. Cricket will return to the Olympics at Los Angeles 2028, with only six teams set to compete, making qualification an exceptionally selective process.

“Who wouldn't want to play in the Olympics?” Litton said. “However, our immediate focus is to perform well in the Asian Games by taking it match by match to reach the final.”

He sees a strong campaign in Japan as potentially beneficial beyond Bangladesh cricket.

“Doing something meaningful for the nation through sports is a privilege,” he said. “If we perform well here and pave the way for Olympic qualification, it will benefit other sports disciplines in Bangladesh as well.”