Photo Credit: LinkedIn Profile Photo of Phil Simmons
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is considering extending Phil Simmons’ tenure as head coach until the 2027 ODI World Cup, with director Nazmul Abedeen Fahim confirming that official discussions will take place soon. Fahim emphasized that the board is keen to secure Simmons for a long-term role after initially appointing him in October last year on an interim basis.
The contract extension was one of several topics discussed during a board meeting in Dhaka on Monday. While Simmons’ four-month tenure saw Bangladesh win only one series—a 3-0 T20I victory over the West Indies—and an early exit from the Champions Trophy after losses to India and New Zealand, he has earned the backing of both BCB president Faruque Ahmed and director Fahim, two of the most influential figures in the board.
“The contracts of our head coach and senior assistant coach were till mid-March,” Fahim said. “We are satisfied with them, so we will get in touch with them for renegotiation. If we can’t get into an understanding with them, we have to think about other options. We are hopeful of reaching a mutual understanding with them. We are thinking of extending their contracts till the 2027 World Cup.”
Fahim also expressed confidence in Simmons’ ability to lead the team. “We will speak to him formally very soon. I have seen him from up close. I am convinced he will do well with the Bangladesh team. I have also seen the interpersonal relationships he has with the local coaches and the players. I think he will do well here.”
The BCB is also set to extend the contract of senior assistant coach Mohammad Salahuddin, who was appointed on a short-term basis last November. One of the key reasons for retaining both Simmons and Salahuddin is their ability to work together effectively.
Additionally, the board has decided to renew the contract of spin-bowling coach Mushtaq Ahmed. At the same time, it has accepted Hannan Sarkar’s resignation as a selector. Fahim noted that the BCB is also looking to enhance the national team’s fielding standards and is currently in talks with multiple fielding coaches to strengthen the setup.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
