The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is contemplating the idea of introducing additional breaks during the one-match Test series against Afghanistan, considering the intense heat expected during the match. The Test is scheduled to take place at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium from June 14.
Heat has emerged as a major concern for the hosts, as this will only be their second Test played in June on their home ground, with the previous one played against India in 2015 at Fatullah. The temperature reached 38 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, raising concerns about the players’ well-being.
In order to mitigate the effects of the heat, the BCB has implemented various measures to ensure the players can endure the challenging conditions. BCB chief physician Debashish Chowdhury expressed the board’s desire to increase the number of breaks during the Test match against Afghanistan. He emphasized the importance of considering the players’ health and well-being in making this decision.
Typically, there are three sessions in a Test match with a drinks break during each session, in addition to the lunch and tea breaks. However, Chowdhury suggested the possibility of having two drinks breaks instead of one, allowing the players more opportunities to hydrate and seek respite from the heat.
Shahriar Nafees, BCB’s cricket operation manager, echoed Chowdhury’s sentiments, stating that if both teams agree, additional breaks can be introduced in the upcoming Test match. The match referee, team captains, and managers will hold a meeting before the start of the match to discuss and determine if more breaks are necessary.
However, a senior umpire, speaking anonymously, expressed concerns about the practicality of introducing more breaks in a Test match. Considering the game’s duration and the need to manage the timing of play, it may pose challenges if more time is consumed through breaks.
Despite these considerations, the BCB’s chief physician emphasized that the primary focus at the moment is on ensuring the cricketers take necessary steps to prevent dehydration. The board is urging the players to follow a scheduled approach to hydration, known as “clock feeding,” rather than relying on thirst. This entails drinking water regularly, approximately every hour, to maintain proper hydration levels.