Bangladesh’s cricket team faced a tumultuous homecoming after their 3-0 ODI series loss to Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi. Videos circulating on social platforms captured the players enduring verbal attacks as they disembarked at Dhaka airport.
Batsman Mohammad Naim recounted the hostile reception he encountered upon exiting the terminal. In preparation for their upcoming ODI match against the West Indies, head coach Phil Simmons addressed the situation by disapproving of players’ social media interactions.
During a media briefing in Mirpur, Simmons expressed his stance, emphasizing his disagreement with players using social media platforms. He highlighted that while individuals have the right to express themselves online, he believes national and international team members, such as those from Bangladesh, should refrain from such engagements.
The seasoned coach, who has led various teams including Zimbabwe, Ireland, Afghanistan, and West Indies, condemned the racial slurs aimed at wicketkeeper-batsman Jaker Ali Anik. He firmly stated his disapproval of introducing racial elements into player-related discussions, regardless of their origins.
Simmons concluded the press conference by acknowledging a past incident where a member of the coaching staff had raised racial issues involving Jaker during the 2024 BPL, conceding to the validity of the observation made by journalists.