The head coach Chandika Hathurusingha has been suspended by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) due to disciplinary action for 48 hours, a few days before the test series against South Africa at home.
Meanwhile, Phil Simmons will take over as head coach on an interim basis till the Champions Trophy in 2025. He has previously coached the West Indies, Ireland and Afghanistan national teams.
According to the media, the former Sri Lanka cricketer had allegedly slapped a Bangladeshi cricketer during the World Cup 2023 in India. The Bangladesh Board investigated the case when a player alleged that Hathurusingha slapped him.
Hathurusingha returned for his second stint as Bangladesh coach in February last year. It added up the mixed reactions with new BCB president Faruque Ahmed who questioned BCB’s decision to bring back at time.
“There were a few incidents that, as a former cricketer, were painful for me. Considering everything, we have issued a show-cause notice and suspended him from his role as coach.”
“After 48 hours, we will proceed with his dismissal. The harassment of a cricketer was one of the reasons. Additionally, taking leave without permission is another issue,” said Farquee.
After being elected as BCB president, he reiterated his stance, marking Chandika’s departure from Bangladesh cricket.
Under Hathurusingha, Bangladesh had an underwhelming performance during last year’s ODI World Cup 2023 and T20 World Cup 2024. His achievement comes from Bangladesh’s historic win in the test series against Pakistan this year.
It was their maiden win in Pakistan, and first against Pakistan this year. But, they suffered a clean sweep defeat in the two-match test series and three-match T20I series against India.
