Litton’s fitness had been a concern for Bangladesh, but he took part in batting and wicketkeeping drills during Wednesday’s training session at Marrara Stadium. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto confirmed that the 31-year-old is fully fit for the series opener.
“He is 100% fit,” Shanto said.
Litton is expected to slot into the middle order, most likely at No. 5 or No. 6. His return adds valuable experience to a Bangladesh batting lineup that struggled badly in the recent tour match against the Cricket Australia XI, being bowled out for just 54 in their second innings.
Litton has been Bangladesh’s leading Test run-scorer over the past five years and his presence behind the stumps will also strengthen the team.
Bangladesh are yet to finalise their bowling combination, with Shanto indicating that the final XI will depend on the Darwin pitch and conditions. Taijul Islam has also returned to bowling after recovering from a bruised finger.
"The surface looks good, I think we (might stick with our) normal combination, like two spinners and three seamers," Shanto told a bustling press pack on Wednesday.
With Litton now fit, Bangladesh are set to enter the first Test with one of their most experienced players back in the side.
