Bangladesh head coach Phil Simmons has identified the swift transition from the cooler climate of the Asian Games in Japan to the intense heat of the UAE as the primary hurdle for his squad. With a one-off Test match against Afghanistan set to commence in Abu Dhabi on October 9, the players are currently navigating a significant environmental shift. Simmons noted that the team’s preparation was hindered by persistent rain in Japan, which confined the players to their hotel rooms and limited their training opportunities prior to their arrival in the Emirates.
Speaking on Wednesday, October 7, the head coach emphasized that the challenge of adapting to the UAE’s climate is largely a psychological test. “Well, that’s the only issue right now as the guys who came from Japan and are not doing much there and then having to come in this weather,” Simmons explained. He stressed that success depends on their mental adjustment, though he expressed optimism after observing the team’s first training session in the heat. “Two days in this weather and it’s how they adjust, because it’s a mental thing at the end of the day. Today they look good for their first day in the heat and I’m sure they will adjust themselves properly.” Cricketers arriving from Japan a couple of days ago completed their first practice session in Abu Dhabi’s heat and looked to be facing some difficulty adjusting to conditions in the UAE, considering they came from a relatively cooler part of the world.
Looking ahead to the upcoming match, Simmons evaluated the playing surface in Abu Dhabi as a potentially good, though likely slow, wicket. This characteristic could prove challenging given Afghanistan’s diverse and potent spin bowling attack. Consequently, the coaching staff is tailoring their training regimen specifically to handle a significant workload against spinners. Despite these logistical hurdles, Simmons reported that the team’s overall preparation has been productive and the players remain focused on the task ahead.
