Bangladesh Coach Phil Simmons Exits Sri Lanka Tour for Medical Checkup; Return Expected July 7

Simmons Temporarily Departs Sri Lanka Tour for Medical Consultation

Phil Simmons, the head coach of the Bangladesh national cricket team, has left the ongoing tour of Sri Lanka to consult with medical professionals in London. Contrary to speculation, this departure is not related to a performance review by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Simmons had a pre-scheduled medical appointment in the UK.

Simmons is heading to London for a medical appointment © AFP

Simmons is expected to rejoin the team in Sri Lanka on July 7, in time for the third One Day International (ODI) of the series. Following the ODI series, Bangladesh is scheduled to play three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) against Sri Lanka.

Team manager Nafees Iqbal confirmed the news on Friday, stating, "Phil Simmons is leaving for two days for personal reasons. He had a doctor's appointment in February, but he missed it due to the Champions Trophy. This appointment with the physicians is unchangeable. He tried to reschedule, but it was not possible. Before the tour began, he discussed this with the board and planned accordingly. He departs today and will be back on July 7."

The Bangladesh team's performance has been mixed on the tour so far. After a strong showing in the first Test, which ended in a draw, they lost the second Test and the series. They also suffered a batting collapse in the first ODI, resulting in a loss.