The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has suspended Chandika Hathurusinghe, head coach of the men’s national cricket team, with immediate effect. The BCB has announced a 48-hour suspension for Hathurusinghe, followed by the termination of his contract. This decision comes amid growing concerns within the board regarding disciplinary issues.
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A disappointing season for Chandika Hathurusinghe
The Sri Lankan-born coach returned to lead Bangladesh in January 2023 for a second stint after a successful stint with the team between 2014 and 2017.
His return was marked by optimism as in his previous tenure Bangladesh cricket made notable strides, particularly in the shorter formats of the game. Under his leadership, the national team earned automatic qualification for the 2019 ODI World Cup and reached the semi-finals of the 2017 Champions Trophy, marking a significant upturn in their cricketing fortunes.
However, Hathurusinghe’s second stint came to a sudden and disappointing end following the team’s mixed results over the past year. Bangladesh had shown promise under his leadership, notably winning a historic Test series against Pakistan earlier this year.
However, their form dipped afterwards, especially on their recent tour of India, where they were soundly defeated in both the Test series (2-0) and T20I (3-0). Recent failures, compounded by disappointing performances in the 2023 ODI World Cup and 2024 T20 World Cup, ultimately contributed to the decision to part ways with Hathurusinghe.
Phil Simmons named head coach
In light of Hathurusinghe’s departure, former West Indies all-rounder Phil Simmons has been appointed head coach. An experienced international coach, Simmons brings a wealth of experience, having previously coached Zimbabwe, Afghanistan and the West Indies. His most recent coaching assignment was with the West Indies, whom he coached from 2019 until earlier this year following their tour of Australia.
Simmons, 61, will work with BCB until the ICC Champions Trophy competition in Pakistan next year.
BCB President Faruque Ahmed said: “I had the opportunity to speak with Phil Simmons and heard his philosophy and ideas on cricket. “His extensive coaching experience, vision and proven track record of success make him the ideal choice for this position.”
Simmons’ immediate task will be to prepare Bangladesh for the upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa, which will take place at home later this month. His contract is expected to run until the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, giving him the opportunity to build on Hathurusinghe’s groundwork and guide Bangladesh to better performances on the world stage.
Hathurusinghe’s initial appointment in 2014 had been a turning point for Bangladesh cricket as he guided the team to several historic milestones, including their first qualification for the semi-finals of the ICC Champions Trophy in 2017. His return was expected in 2023. will replicate that success, but his departure now indicates the need for a new direction in Bangladesh cricket.
As the BCB moves forward with Phil Simmons at the helm, it will look to stabilize the team and build a solid foundation ahead of major international tournaments including the Champions Trophy 2025 and ODI World Cup 2027.
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