Bangladesh to depart early for Pakistan amid civil unrest

In light of the profound instability and rampant violence stemming from the current political upheaval engulfing Bangladesh, it has been announced that the Bangladeshi squad will depart for Pakistan five days ahead of their originally scheduled itinerary. The revised departure is set for Monday, August 12, 2024.

An official from the Bangladesh Cricket Board indicated that the governing body was striving to expedite the team’s journey to Pakistan. This decision was driven by the inability to mandate attendance at practice sessions in Bangladesh, owing to stringent travel restrictions and heightened security concerns. The situation was further exacerbated by the fact that several police stations in the city are currently non-operational, significantly compromising safety.

"We cannot force them (the foreign coaching staff) to attend practice sessions given their travel restrictions. The fact that several police stations in the city are still not operating is a significant concern. We are working on getting the team to Pakistan earlier," the BCB official told Cricbuzz.

Also Read: 'My family and I are currently safe and secure' - Litton Das quashes rumours of his house getting burnt down during Bangladesh protests

While the players continue to engage in practice sessions whenever possible, the foreign coaching staff from Bangladesh have opted out of these sessions. This decision stems from travel restrictions imposed by their respective embassies, a response to the ongoing political turmoil in the country.

Also Read: 'I wish this tragedy and trauma doesn't happen to anyone' - Anamul Haque on ongoing political unrest in Bangladesh

The foreign coaching ensemble comprises head coach Chandika Hathurusingha, bowling coach Andre Adams, assistant coach Nic Pothas, spin consultant Mushtaq Ahmed, batting coach David Hemp, and strength & conditioning coach Nathan Kelly.

It is also understood that Shakib al Hasan and Shoriful Islam, who are presently competing for the Bangla Tigers Mississauga in the Global T20 Canada 2024, are slated to travel directly to Pakistan if they are chosen for the Test squad. This selection is anticipated to be announced on August 11. 

The forthcoming two-match Test series is set to commence in Rawalpindi on August 21.