With Bangladesh set to embark on a Test tour of Sri Lanka later this month, the focus within the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has shifted from recent T20I disappointments to the upcoming red-ball assignment.
Newly-appointed BCB president Aminul Islam Bulbul held a series of meetings at the BCB headquarters yesterday, including discussions with head coach Phil Simmons and cricket operations chairman Nazmul Abedeen Fahim. An ‘introductory’ meeting also took place with national selectors Gazi Ashraf Hossain Lipu and Abdur Razzak.
According to board sources, the meetings included an assessment of Bangladesh’s recent T20I performances, particularly the disappointing series defeats in the UAE and Pakistan. While the Pakistan series showed glimpses of promise, especially at the top of the batting order, the team failed to maintain consistent pressure. The UAE series, however, sparked deeper concern regarding the team’s perseverance and long-term prospects in the shortest format.
Though T20I struggles featured in the discussion, attention has now turned to the Test format. In line with standard procedure, selectors consulted with coaches and captains ahead of the squad announcement for the Sri Lanka series. Part of this discussion took place yesterday before President Bulbul departed for Australia for Eid holidays.
Despite speculation, there appears to be minimal likelihood of new additions to the Test squad. The BCB is expected to officially announce the squad once the selection panel submits its final list.
Bangladesh are scheduled to leave for Sri Lanka on 13 June, with the two-match Test series set to begin on 17 June in Galle.