BANGLADESH TOUR OF SL, 2025
Mehidy is currently battling a fever © BCB
Bangladesh head coach Phil Simmons said on Sunday that “one man’s trouble is another man’s joy,” after Mehidy Hasan missed their first practice session in Galle ahead of the opening Test against Sri Lanka, scheduled to begin on June 17.
The visitors began their preparation for the first Test after heavy rain and thunderstorms kept them indoors at the team hotel for the last couple of days.
The team management is keeping a close eye on Mehidy, who is expected to play a crucial role in this series which marks Bangladesh’s journey in the new World Test Championship cycle, especially given his recent form in the longer format. The all-rounder is currently battling a fever, but Simmons insisted the camp isn’t losing sleep over it.
“The last update this morning is that he’s been a lot better over the last couple of days, and we’ll see how he is this evening after medication. Hopefully, he will be able to practice tomorrow and be ready,” Simmons told reporters after their practice session in Galle.
“Yes, it definitely adds a bit of concern (Mehidy’s unavailability), but one man’s trouble is another man’s joy. I am sure the guys are willing him to get better, but they also know that if he doesn’t play, someone has to step up. It’s a little bit of a headache, but a nice headache to have,” he added.
Simmons said he wants senior batter Mushfiqur Rahim to simply enjoy his game. Mushfiqur had announced his arrival at the highest level with a double century in Galle back in 2013.
“The expectation for him (Mushfiqur) is to enjoy what he is doing. The last time I looked back at the innings he played here, he seemed to be enjoying his game and that’s all I am asking of him. There is no expectation on him more than any other player, so I just want him to enjoy,” said Simmons.
Simmons also addressed the sudden ODI captaincy change, saying it wouldn’t affect Najmul Hossain, even if the latter was taken aback by the BCB’s decision to hand over the reins to Mehidy Hasan.
“I definitely don’t think it will impact him. When he goes on to play cricket, he just plays cricket and everything else, he leaves to us. I don’t think it will affect him,” Simmons said.
On the conditions in Galle, Simmons noted that he expects some turn from the surface but was not ready to reveal the team combination, even as speculation builds over Najmul potentially opening the innings.
“The wicket looks very good. Tomorrow, there will be another roll and cut, and we’ll see what we actually have. It always turns here, it’s just a question of how much it will turn,” he said.
© Cricbuzz
