Openers depart giving Bangladesh solid start

Bangladesh`s Liton Das (R) and Naim Sheikh (L) run between the wickets during the second T20 international cricket match of a three-match series between Bangladesh and India at Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot on 7 November 2019. Photo: AFP
Bangladesh`s Liton Das (R) and Naim Sheikh (L) run between the wickets during the second T20 international cricket match of a three-match series between Bangladesh and India at Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot on 7 November 2019. Photo: AFP

Mohammad Naim and Liton Das built a solid foundation for Bangladesh before departing for 36 and 29 runs respectively in the second Twenty20 international at Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot, India.

The 60-run partnership between Mohammad Naim and Liton Das gave the Tigers a flying start, in which Naim Sheikh contributed 30 off 24 balls while Liton Das added 29 off 21 balls.

Earlier, India won the toss and asked Bangladesh to bowl as the hosts are trailing the series 1-0 in the three-match series.

"Rajkot's always been a good track despite some cracks. Think there may be dew later, so life will be easier for the batsmen," Sharma, was quoted to have said to news agency AFP.

"The set of boys we have are new and I want to make them comfortable. When you have a score in front of you, then the batsmen know what sort of tempo they need to bat with.

"No changes because our performances in the last game were right up there, barring a few mistakes."

After the toss Bangladesh kipper Mahmudullah said, "I would have loved to bowl first too but now will want to put some runs on the board. It's a good opportunity for all of us (to win the series)."