Litton blames dew and poor execution after record defeat to UAE

Bangladesh suffered a historic T20I defeat in Sharjah, failing to defend a total of 205 against the United Arab Emirates. It was the first time any team had chased over 200 runs at the venue, and also marked Bangladesh's first T20I loss to the UAE.

Speaking after the two-wicket defeat, captain Litton Das expressed frustration but acknowledged that conditions and execution played a significant role in the outcome.

"Any defeat is difficult to accept," said Litton. "But we batted well on this pitch. It was a good surface. When they batted, the dew helped them a lot. Still, we gave our best. We made a few mistakes in the field and in the middle overs with our bowling."

Litton also admitted that the team had fallen short tactically, especially given the conditions. "In grounds like this — small, and with heavy dew — bowlers need to think things through. You need clear calculations and separate plans for different batters."

Despite posting what should have been a defendable total, Bangladesh were outclassed by UAE captain Muhammad Waseem, who smashed 82 off 42 balls. He and Muhammad Zohaib put on a 107-run opening stand, before Haider Ali's quickfire 15 off 6 sealed the win with a ball to spare.

Litton, who made 40 off 32 balls with three fours and a six, conceded that his own contribution wasn't good enough. "My innings wasn't really up to T20 standards, but I'll try my best to improve," he said.

The match was also the T20I debut of pacer Nahid Rana, who returned figures of 2 for 50 in his four overs. While his performance fell short of expectations, Litton offered support. "Before his final over, Rana had done well enough. We expected a bit more from him, but there will be good and bad days in cricket. We'll sit down, review, and come back stronger."

The series was initially scheduled for two matches, but both boards agreed to add a third. The decider will be played on 21 may.