After the Test, Bangladesh team also lost miserably in the first ODI of the series against Sri Lanka. Mehedi Hasan Miraz’s team will play the second ODI tomorrow (Saturday). Before that, Bangladesh head coach Phil Simmons left the team hotel for London this afternoon (Friday).
Simmons is going to London for treatment. A source with the team confirmed this to Dhaka Post. If everything is fine, Simmons will join the team before the third ODI after seeing a doctor. That is, the Tigers will not get him in the second ODI tomorrow.
In this regard, Nafis Iqbal Team Manager Nafis Iqbal told Dhaka Post, “Phil Simmons is going to the UK for two days for personal reasons. He had an appointment with his doctor in February, but he could not go at that time because of the Champions Trophy. It was impossible to miss this appointment. He tried to change the time, but it was not possible. Simmons had planned this trip in consultation with the board before this trip. Insha-Allah, he will return on July 7.”
Earlier, Bangladesh’s spin coach Mushtaq Ahmed had returned to Pakistan during the Test series against the Sri Lankans. Meanwhile, senior assistant coach Mohammad Salahuddin will have to take additional responsibility in the second ODI in the absence of the head coach. Apart from this, the team is accompanied by pace bowling coach Shaun Tait and fielding coach James Payment. The second ODI of the series will be held in Colombo tomorrow. Later, the third and final ODI of the series will be held in Pallekele on July 8.
FAQ
Why did Phil Simmons leave for London during the ODI series?
Phil Simmons reportedly left for London due to personal reasons. The exact details haven’t been made public, but it came at a surprising time during the ongoing series.
Was his departure planned in advance?
There is no official confirmation if this was a planned trip. Given the timing during an ODI series loss, it has raised questions among fans and media.
Is Phil Simmons still the head coach of Bangladesh?
Yes, as of now, he remains the head coach. His trip to London does not indicate a resignation or termination.
Did his absence affect the team’s performance?
While it’s hard to say for sure, leadership changes or absences can sometimes impact team morale and planning, especially during an ongoing series.
Who is currently handling the coaching duties in his absence?
An assistant coach or interim staff member from the Bangladesh coaching team is likely managing the squad until Simmons returns.
