Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has suspended Chandika Hathurusinghe, the 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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The Sri Lankan-born coach had returned to helm Bangladesh in January 2023 for a second stint after a successful period with the team between 2014 and 2017.
His return was marked with optimism, as his earlier tenure saw Bangladesh cricket make notable strides, particularly in the shorter formats of the game. Under his guidance, the national team gained automatic qualification for the 2019 ODI World Cup and reached the semifinals of the 2017 Champions Trophy, marking a significant upturn in their cricketing fortunes.
However, Hathurusinghe’s second stint has come to a sudden and underwhelming 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 afterward, especially on their recent tour of India, where they were comprehensively beaten in both the Test (2-0) and T20I (3-0) series. The recent failures, compounded by disappointing performances in the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup, ultimately contributed to the decision to part ways with Hathurusinghe.
In light of Hathurusinghe’s departure, former West Indies all-rounder Phil Simmons has been named as the head coach. Simmons, a seasoned international coach, brings a wealth of experience, having previously coached Zimbabwe, Afghanistan, and West Indies. His most recent coaching assignment was with the West Indies, whom he led from 2019 until earlier this year after their tour of Australia.
Simmons, 61, will work with BCB till the ICC Champions Trophy competition in Pakistan next year.
BCB President Faruque Ahmed said: “I have had the opportunity to speak to Phil Simmons and have listened to his cricket philosophy and ideas. His extensive coaching experience, vision and proven track record of success make him an ideal choice for this role.”
Simmons’ immediate task will be to prepare Bangladesh for the upcoming two-match Test series against South Africa, set to 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 steer Bangladesh towards improved performances on the global 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 maiden qualification for the ICC Champions Trophy semifinals in 2017. His return in 2023 was expected to replicate that success, but his departure now signals a need for a new direction in Bangladesh cricket.
As the BCB moves forward with Phil Simmons at the helm, it will be looking to stabilize the team and build a strong foundation ahead of major international tournaments, including the 2025 Champions Trophy and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
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