'Nice headache to have': Simmons on Mehidy's illness and team depth

Bangladesh head coach Phil Simmons has addressed the team's situation as they prepare for the first Test against Sri Lanka, acknowledging concerns surrounding Mehidy Hasan's illness but highlighting the opportunities it presents for other players. The match is scheduled to commence on June 17 in Galle.

Mehidy is currently battling a fever © BCB

Following a couple of days of heavy rain that confined the team to their hotel, Bangladesh initiated their preparations for the crucial Test series.

The team management is closely monitoring Mehidy, a key player in Bangladesh's campaign in the new World Test Championship cycle. His recent performances in the longer format have been noteworthy. Despite the all-rounder battling a fever, Simmons remains optimistic.

"The latest update we received this morning indicates that he has shown significant improvement over the past few days. We will assess his condition this evening after he takes his medication. We are hopeful that he will be able to practice tomorrow and be fully prepared," Simmons stated to reporters following their practice session in Galle.

He further added, "Certainly, Mehidy's potential unavailability introduces some concern, but as they say, 'one man's trouble is another man's joy.' I am confident that his teammates are eager for his recovery, but they are also aware that someone else will need to step up if he is unable to play. It presents a slight dilemma, but it's a positive one to have."

Simmons expressed his desire for veteran batter Mushfiqur Rahim to simply relish his time on the field. Mushfiqur made a memorable entry onto the international stage with a double century in Galle in 2013.

"Our expectation for Mushfiqur is that he enjoys his game. Reflecting on his previous innings here, he appeared to be enjoying himself, and that is all I ask of him. There are no additional expectations placed on him compared to any other player; I simply want him to enjoy the experience," Simmons remarked.

Addressing the unexpected change in ODI captaincy, Simmons reassured that it would not negatively impact Najmul Hossain, even if the decision by the BCB to appoint Mehidy Hasan as captain came as a surprise to him.

"I am confident that it will not affect him. When he steps onto the field to play cricket, he focuses solely on that, leaving everything else to us. I do not believe it will have any adverse effects on him," Simmons affirmed.

Regarding the conditions in Galle, Simmons anticipates some assistance for spinners but refrained from disclosing the team composition. Speculation is rife regarding Najmul potentially opening the innings.

"The pitch appears to be in excellent condition. Tomorrow, it will undergo another round of rolling and cutting, after which we will have a clearer understanding of its characteristics. Historically, it has always offered turn, the only question is the degree to which it will turn," he concluded.