Injury Forces Liton Das Out of LPL

Bangladesh wicketkeeper-batter Liton Das has withdrawn from the upcoming season of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) after sustaining an injury, ending his hopes of representing Galle Gladiators in Sri Lanka’s premier franchise Twenty20 competition.

Liton had been signed directly by Galle outside the LPL draft, underlining the franchise’s confidence in his abilities as an experienced top-order batter and reliable wicketkeeper. He had also secured a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), allowing him to participate in the tournament despite a demanding international schedule.

The experienced cricketer had initially planned to prioritise the LPL, even though he was considered a strong candidate to captain Bangladesh in the upcoming T20 International series against Zimbabwe. His intention was to miss that assignment in favour of fulfilling his franchise commitments. Those plans, however, were brought to an abrupt halt after he suffered an injury during the third One-Day International against Australia.

Following medical assessments, doctors and the Bangladesh team management advised Liton to remain sidelined to ensure a full recovery. The injury had already ruled him out of the T20I series against Australia and subsequently the ODI series against Zimbabwe. His withdrawal from the LPL is the latest consequence of the same setback, extending his spell away from competitive cricket.

Liton’s absence is also a significant blow for Galle. The franchise had recruited him for his international experience, aggressive stroke play at the top of the order and the added flexibility he offers as a wicketkeeper-batter. His ability to provide quick starts in the powerplay and contribute behind the stumps made him an attractive signing for the Sri Lankan side. Losing such a versatile player before the tournament begins forces the team to reconsider its squad balance and preparations.

The 2026 edition of the Lanka Premier League is scheduled to begin on 17 July and will run until 8 August. Over the years, the competition has developed into one of South Asia’s most prominent franchise T20 tournaments, regularly attracting leading Sri Lankan players alongside established international stars. The event provides valuable exposure for cricketers while offering franchises a highly competitive platform ahead of other major domestic and international assignments.

At one stage, five Bangladeshi players were expected to feature in this season’s tournament. Liton’s withdrawal reduces that number to four. Shakib Al Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Hasan Mahmud are now set to represent Bangladesh in the competition. Shakib and Taskin had both secured direct signings with Jaffna Kings before the player draft, reflecting their continued demand in franchise cricket.

For Liton, the immediate priority is regaining full fitness rather than rushing back into action. Bangladesh have an important international calendar ahead, making his rehabilitation a matter of considerable importance for both the player and the national team. While missing the LPL deprives him of valuable match practice and another opportunity to showcase his skills on the franchise circuit, a complete recovery is widely viewed as the best long-term outcome.

Bangladesh’s team management will be keen to see one of the country’s most experienced batters return fully fit, ensuring he is available for the challenges that lie ahead in international cricket rather than risking a prolonged absence through a premature comeback.