Bangladesh Faces Coaching Setback Ahead of ODI Series Against Sri Lanka
The Bangladesh cricket team is currently in Sri Lanka for a multi-format series but faces challenges as head coach Phil Simmons will miss the second ODI due to a doctor's appointment. After losing the Test series and the first ODI, the team is under pressure to perform. With a poor batting display in the first match, they aim to bounce back in the upcoming game on July 5. Simmons is expected to return for the third ODI and the T20 series. This situation adds to the team's challenges as they strive to keep the series competitive.
| Jul 4, 2025, 16:21 IST
Bangladesh's Tour of Sri Lanka: Challenges Ahead
Currently, the Bangladesh cricket team is in Sri Lanka for a multi-format series. They faced a setback in the Test series, losing 0-1, and have already dropped the first match of the three-match ODI series. Now, they are dealt another blow as their head coach, Phil Simmons, will not be present for the second ODI.
There were speculations that Simmons was called by the BCB president, Aminul Islam, for a performance review of the coaching staff. However, Simmons has a doctor's appointment in the UK and is scheduled to leave for Sri Lanka on Friday. It is anticipated that he will be available for the third ODI on July 8 and will continue with the team for the T20 series thereafter.
Confirming this situation, the team manager stated that Phil Simmons is leaving for personal reasons for two days. He had a doctor's appointment in February, which he missed due to the Champions Trophy. Unfortunately, the appointment could not be rescheduled. He attempted to change it but was unable to do so for various reasons. Prior to the tour, he discussed this with the board and made plans accordingly. He is departing today and will return on July 7.
The primary reason for Bangladesh's defeat in the first ODI against Sri Lanka was the poor performance of the batsmen. Chasing a target of 245, the team had a promising start at 100/1 but then lost 7 wickets for just 5 runs, ultimately collapsing to a total of 167. Bangladesh will aim to win the match on July 5 to keep the series alive.