Bangladesh head coach Phil Simmons expressed satisfaction as his side “hit the ground running” in the opening Test against Sri Lanka, breaking their usual pattern of slow starts to away series. Following a morale-boosting draw in Galle, Simmons told reporters that team confidence and spirits are high heading into the second Test in Colombo.
The Tigers, who have recently shown improvement in away conditions—drawing their previous Test series in the West Indies and at home against Zimbabwe—are hoping to build on their positive momentum. “There’s a lot of confidence from the way we played. Often, we’re a bit slow to start, but this time, we hit the ground running,” Simmons said. “The morale has been excellent from the start. Spirits are high and the players are mentally strong and physically ready.”
Simmons confirmed that all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz is fit and available for selection after missing the first Test due to fever, and the team management is yet to decide whether to play three seamers or three spinners in Colombo. If Bangladesh opt for two spinners, in-form Nayeem Hasan—who claimed a five-wicket haul in Galle—may make way for Mehidy, given his batting abilities.
“The decision will depend on pitch conditions,” Simmons explained. “Nayeem had a wonderful game in Galle, so leaving him out would be tough. But everyone understands that selection depends on conditions and what’s best for the team.”
Meanwhile, Sri Lankan captain Dhananjaya de Silva expects a high-scoring match and has urged his batters to take responsibility by posting a big first-innings total. “If we can post a strong total, the pressure shifts to the opposition,” he said, noting that the Colombo surface is likely to aid batsmen early but may provide turn in the final days.
With both teams eyeing improvements and aware of the importance of team balance and strategy, the stage is set for a competitive second Test.
