Simmons Urges Bangladesh to Embrace a '50-over Mentality' Ahead of Champions Trophy
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Synopsis
On February 10, Phil Simmons, the head coach of Bangladesh, stressed the need for his team to adopt a 50-over mentality as they prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy. While other teams engage in ODI series, Bangladesh comes from the T20 Bangladesh Premier League. Simmons emphasizes mental adjustment and practice for optimal performance in the upcoming tournament.
Key Takeaways
- Phil Simmons emphasizes the need for a 50-over mindset.
- Bangladesh team is transitioning from T20 to ODI preparation.
- Double practice sessions are planned for skill sharpening.
- Focus on acclimatization to conditions in Dubai and Pakistan.
- Strong mental attitude is crucial for success.
Dhaka, Feb 10 (NationPress) Head coach Phil Simmons of Bangladesh has emphasized the necessity for his team to adopt a 50-over mentality ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy. The eight competing teams are engaged in bilateral ODI series as part of their preparations for this significant tournament. Meanwhile, Bangladesh is entering the event after their participation in the Bangladesh Premier League, the nation's only franchise-based T20 competition.
“I acknowledge that this may not be the ideal preparation. However, they have been playing white-ball cricket, which has helped sharpen their skills. We need to transition their mindset to 50-over cricket in the next six or seven days. They possess the skills and are performing well; it’s about cultivating that 50-over mentality now,” Simmons informed reporters on Monday.
“We will conduct double practice sessions over the next few days. We’ll bat and bowl in the morning and repeat the process under the lights. We're preparing ourselves for a full 50 overs of batting,” he added.
The former West Indies all-rounder elaborated on Bangladesh’s preparations for the tournament, which is set to take place in Pakistan and Dubai. The UAE will host India’s matches in the tournament following the ICC’s agreement on a hybrid model for international events involving India and Pakistan until 2027.
“The initial phase of our preparation focuses on Dubai. Once we establish the right mindset and concentrate on the appropriate aspects for Dubai, we can commence the competition strongly. We will also acclimatize to the conditions in Pakistan thereafter,” Simmons mentioned.
“So far, we have not observed any residual effects from the BPL during the training camp. The players are eager to spend time in the middle, getting into the right mindset for long innings and bowling accurately in 50-over cricket. I don’t foresee any negative impact,” he continued.
Simmons also noted that although team captain Najmul Hossain faced challenges maintaining a regular spot in the playing XI of champions Fortune Barishal during the tournament, it won’t be an issue for him due to his robust mentality. “He (Najmul) has been working diligently even when he wasn’t playing. We need a strong mental approach from everyone in the squad. I believe (Shanto) has that quality, and I look forward to his continued contributions,” Simmons stated.
The coach mentioned that pace bowler Nahid Rana is regaining his rhythm after a brief rest following the BPL.
“Nahid has appeared slower than his usual pace in the last few games. His run-up was less brisk than normal. With the early exit from the tournament, he got some rest. However, he showed sharpness in training yesterday, regaining his typical pace and run-up speed akin to what he showcased in the Caribbean,” Simmons said.
Simmons expressed confidence in his team's potential to excel in the Champions Trophy.
“I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t believe we could go all the way. It’s essential to prepare as thoroughly as possible before entering a tournament. On the day of competition, it’s crucial to perform at our best. That’s my aim every time. We’ve made significant progress in the Caribbean, and I believe we have a strong chance if we perform to our capabilities,” he expressed.
In the meantime, it has been confirmed that pace bowler Hasan Mahmud will join Bangladesh’s initial preparations for the Champions Trophy, but will return home once the tournament commences. The Bangladesh team is scheduled to depart for the UAE on February 14, where they will face Pakistan A in a warm-up match before beginning their Champions Trophy journey.
They are set to play their opening match against India in Dubai on February 20, followed by crucial matches against New Zealand and Pakistan in Rawalpindi on February 24 and 27, respectively.
