Bangladesh won the last T20 series against Pakistan at home. Despite winning the series, there was some discomfort with the wicket at the Mirpur Sher-e-Bangla Stadium. None of the Pakistan coach and captain were happy with such a wicket. After that, several BCB directors also expressed their dissatisfaction. Cricket Operations Chairman Nazmul Abedin Fahim commented that the team did not expect such a wicket in Mirpur.
Bangladesh head coach Phil Simmons was also disappointed with the behavior of the wicket. Speaking to the media after the board meeting yesterday (Saturday), Fahim said, “(On the question of playing on a sporting wicket in Mirpur) it will definitely happen. To be honest, when we played against Pakistan this time, our head coach was very disappointed with the wicket. Because we know that wherever we go to play, the ideal preparation will not be here. That is why we will play against the Netherlands in Sylhet (at the end of this month), not in Mirpur.”
“We also played against the New Zealand ‘A’ team in Sylhet (last May), where the conditions were similar to theirs (New Zealand). We don’t want to compromise there. We will play on a good wicket, so if we have to face challenges, that is also not a problem,” Fahim added.
The BCB director claims that Bangladeshi cricketers also do not want to play on such wickets anymore, “Our cricketers do not like to play on such wickets (like Mirpur) anymore. Our two openers, who are our strength now, also do not want such wickets. They want good wickets, where the ball comes to the bat, has bounce and can play on the backfoot as well.”
The Litons wanted a sporting wicket before the start of the series against Pakistan. Fahim said that everyone’s thinking is changing, “Captain Liton said before the start of the series against Pakistan that they want to play on good wickets. Our thinking and mentality have changed. Now it’s time for everyone else to change. Then the team will do well, and cricket will also be good.”
FAQ
Why are Coach Phil Simmons and BCB officials disappointed with the Mirpur wicket?
They were unhappy because the pitch at Mirpur Sher-e-Bangla Stadium did not provide good playing conditions. It lacked the bounce and consistency expected, making it difficult for players to perform well.
How did the players react to the Mirpur pitch during the T20 series against Pakistan?
Many players, including key openers, expressed that they do not want to play on such wickets anymore. They prefer sporting wickets that allow better batting, with good bounce and opportunities to play on the backfoot.
Who is Phil Simmons?
Phil Simmons is a well-known cricket coach and former international cricketer. He has coached various teams and is recognized for his experience in international cricket.
What were the specific issues raised about the wicket?
Complaints included the pitch being either too slow, uneven, or not offering a fair balance between bat and ball, which impacted the quality and competitiveness of the matches.
