Coach Phil Simmons elated with Bangladesh’s strong comeback against West Indies

Coach Phil Simmons elated with Bangladesh’s strong comeback against West Indies. (Source – Getty Images)

Bangladesh made an emphatic comeback in the second Test against West Indies, winning the game by 101 runs after suffering a massive 201-run defeat in the first Test. The Mehidy Hasan Miraz-led was under tremendous pressure coming into the second encounter, especially with multiple stars like Najmul Shanto, Shakib Al Hasan (retired) and Mushfiqur Rahim absent.

The visitors lacked experience but managed to put on a great show at Sabina Park in Jamaica. They batted well, particularly Jaker Ali, who made 91 in the second innings as Bangladesh set a target of 287 runs. West Indies batters struggled in both the innings, scoring 146 and 185 as Nahid Rana picked up a five-wicket haul in the first innings while Taskin Ahmed in the second.

After the game, head coach Phil Simmons stated that he loved how batters went out with positive intent. The former cricketer also lauded the players for showing great spirit to comeback after the loss in the first game.

Also Read – West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite after series loss to Bangladesh

“I loved the way the batters came out with a positive attitude. They had a survival attitude in the first few games [since I took charge]. On the third day, you saw that they were saying, ‘I have come to play the game’. I loved and enjoyed it. I made sure that they know that it is the way we have to play from now on. The Test win is something that these young players were looking forward to. It is nice to see them come back in their way after losing the first Test match. It’s total joy for me,” Simmons was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Bangladesh will next play a three-match ODI and T20I series against West Indies, starting December 8. In the absence of Shanto, Miraz will continue to lead the team.