Why Simmons Left Colombo for London — When Will He Return?

Despite a fighting performance in the first ODI, Bangladesh fell to a heavy defeat and now face a must-win situation to stay alive in the series against Sri Lanka. At such a crucial juncture, an unexpected development has occurred — head coach Phil Simmons has left for London, midway through the tour.

Team manager Nafis Iqbal confirmed to the media from Colombo on Friday that Simmons is traveling to London due to a pre-scheduled medical appointment. He is set to leave Colombo tonight and is expected to rejoin the team on 7 July, two days later.

As a result, Simmons will miss the second ODI at the Premadasa Stadium on Saturday, leaving the team under interim guidance. With Bangladesh already trailing in the series, the absence of their experienced Caribbean coach may add extra pressure on stand-in captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz and his side.

Since taking charge in 2023, Simmons has overseen 26 international matches, with Bangladesh winning only 7. In ODIs, the only win under his tenure came against Afghanistan last year. The remaining victories include 2 in Tests and 4 in T20Is.

In the opening match of the series in Colombo, Bangladesh had raised hopes of a win before collapsing to a heavy loss. Now, to win the series, they must win both remaining matches — a tall task, made tougher by the coach’s absence.

Whether the team can rally under pressure and bounce back in the second ODI remains to be seen. Saturday’s match will reveal just how much Simmons’ absence affects the team's confidence and performance.