Amid Bangladesh’s challenging journey in the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is seriously considering major alterations within their coaching setup. A reliable source from BCB confirmed to Cricbuzz that significant changes might be on the horizon, emphasizing that the positions of head coach Chandika Hathurusingha and assistant coach Nick Pothas, although stable for now, could be reconsidered if results don’t improve.
The BCB’s current stance indicates a lack of interest in extending contracts for pace bowling coach Allan Donald, spin bowling coach Rangana Herath, and fielding coach Shane McDermott. Additionally, the team’s analyst, Shrinivas Chandrasekaran, is set to step down from his role after the conclusion of the tournament due to personal reasons, primarily excessive travel commitments.
Shrinivas, who has been with the team since 2017, cited his inability to continue due to family circumstances. “BCB was kind enough to offer me an extension, but I declined. After my father’s passing, leaving my mom and wife alone at home and traveling has become extremely challenging,” he expressed to Cricbuzz.
Head coach Chandika Hathurusingha, who rejoined the team in February 2023, signed a two-year contract, replacing Russell Domingo. Assistant coach Nick Pothas also secured a two-year deal in April.
Bangladesh’s lackluster performance in the ongoing World Cup, including a string of five consecutive losses, prompted captain Shakib al Hasan to label it as their worst display in recent global tournaments. This disappointing run has raised questions about the coaching staff’s effectiveness, leading to intense scrutiny by the cricket board.
Reflecting on the situation, Bangladesh pace bowler Taskin Ahmed acknowledged the inevitability of coaching changes in the sports realm. “No coaches have harmed us, but every coach has a time limit. There are times when coaches leave due to various reasons, and it happens in the sports world. Whoever worked with us has contributed positively to our team,” Taskin Ahmed shared with reporters ahead of their match against Netherlands.
