Bangladesh’s cricket team will leave for the Asian Games on Thursday, with captain Litton Das saying the side is well prepared and aims to reach the final before chasing gold.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday before the team’s departure, Litton said the camp, including two practice matches, had given the squad a good preparation opportunity and a chance to be together after a long time.

“Preparation has been very good. We have had the chance to play two practice games and to be together after a long time. I think we are in a very good position in terms of preparation,” he said.

Bangladesh won cricket gold at the Guangzhou 2010 Asian Games, when India, Pakistan and other Test-playing nations did not send their main teams. This time around, India, Pakistan and nearly all other teams have brought strong squads, with the exception of Sri Lanka.

Litton expressed confidence that Bangladesh would reach the final. “There’s obviously a target. Since we are going to play a tournament, it’s to play the final and do well there,” he said.

The captain said he was not focusing on specific opponents, and that the selectors would decide who replaces Saifuddin. “In any tournament, preparation matters more than who the opponent is. We are prepared for all teams and we have done the preparation we need,” he said.

Litton also described the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics as a big target, but said Bangladesh must first perform well at the Asian Games.

“Who wouldn’t want to play in the Olympics! First, if we play well in this event, I think we will reach the final. The focus is on how we can play this event well and how we can reach the final. If we play the final, there will be a chance to win gold. Before that, we have to reach the final,” he said.