Preparing for the Champions Trophy: Bangladesh’s Intense Training Regimen
Bangladesh is leaving no stone unturned in its preparation for the upcoming Champions Trophy. The team, known for its resilience and adaptability, is currently cramming extra training sessions into its schedule to shift its mindset from T20Is to 50-over cricket. The break since their last ODI in December has been significant, and the recent conclusion of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) on February 7 has left a narrow window for transition. Nonetheless, head coach Phil Simmons is optimistic about his team’s ability to make the switch.
Intensive Training and Mental Preparation
The BPL concluded on February 7, and the very next day, several players reported to a training camp at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka. These were primarily players whose teams had been knocked out before the final, ensuring they had a head start in the transition. The team will continue training in Dhaka until February 12, after which they will depart for the Champions Trophy. Their first match, against India, is scheduled for February 20 in Dubai.
Simmons acknowledges that the preparation is not ideal but emphasizes the players’ existing sharpness and skills. "I agree that it is not the best preparation, but they were playing white-ball cricket, which means that they are sharp skills-wise," he said. "We have to get their minds up to 50-over cricket in the next six or seven days. They have the skills. They are performing. It is about getting to that 50-over mentality now." To achieve this, the team will conduct double practice sessions, focusing on batting and bowling both in the morning and under the lights. This intensive schedule aims to ensure that the players are mentally and physically prepared to bat for the full 50 overs.
Familiar Conditions and a Strong Mental Attitude
Simmons is keen on familiarizing the team with the conditions they will face in Dubai. "The first part of the preparation is about Dubai. Once we can get ourselves in the right frame of mind, and work on the right things for Dubai, I think we can start [preparations for] the rest of the competition as well. We will get familiar conditions in Pakistan after that." The coach believes that once the team adapts to the initial challenges, they will be better equipped to handle the rest of the tournament.
Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto’s return is a significant concern, given his limited recent play. Shanto missed the West Indies tour due to a hamstring injury and last played internationally in November. He returned to action in the National Cricket League T20s and then featured in five games for Fortune Barishal in the BPL. Simmons, however, is confident in Shanto’s determination. "He was working very hard all of those days when he wasn’t playing," Simmons said. "We are going to need a strong mental attitude from everyone in the team. I think he possesses that, so I look forward to him continuing his work."
Addressing Concerns and Boosting Morale
Simmons also addressed concerns about Nahid Rana’s performance towards the end of the BPL. Rana’s pace had dropped, but recent training sessions have shown improvement. "He has looked slower than normal in the last couple of games. The run-up was less than normal approaching the wicket," Simmons said. "They [Rangpur Riders] got knocked out early so he had a bit of rest. He looked sharp in training yesterday. The pace was coming back. The run-up was as quick as it was in the Caribbean."
Simmons’ Commitment and the Team’s Potential
This Champions Trophy is the final assignment under Simmons’ current contract, and questions about his future remain. Despite the uncertainty, Simmons is fully committed to the team’s success. "I won’t be here if I didn’t believe [that we can win]," he said. "I think you prepare as best as you could when you go into a tournament. On that day, you play your best games. That’s what I look to do, on every occasion." Simmons highlights the progress made by the team in the Caribbean and expresses confidence in their ability to perform at their best. "I think we have made a lot of strides in the Caribbean. I think we have a good chance once we play to the best of our ability."
A Tale of Resilience and Ambition
Bangladesh’s preparation for the Champions Trophy is a testament to their resilience and ambition. Despite the challenges, the team is determined to make the most of their preparation and perform at their best. With a strong mental attitude and a dedicated training regimen, Bangladesh is poised to make a significant impact in the tournament. As they embark on this journey, the support and belief of their head coach, Phil Simmons, will be a crucial factor in their success.
