The Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) three-member investigation committee, formed to probe the national team’s disappointing performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup, has revealed serious concerns about head coach Chandika Hathurusingha’s conduct. A controversial altercation between Hathurusingha and national team spinner Nasum Ahmed has emerged as one of the central incidents influencing the coach’s position.
Incident Details:
According to Nasum, during the match against New Zealand in Chennai, a delay in executing an on-field instruction led to Hathurusingha becoming visibly angry. Nasum alleges the coach grabbed him by the collar and struck his neck in frustration. He later reported the matter to selector Habibul Bashar. While Hathurusingha told the investigation committee he couldn’t recall any such incident, Strength and Conditioning Coach Nicholas Lee—an eyewitness—confirmed that Hathurusingha physically grabbed Nasum.
Division and Conspiracy Claims:
The report also highlights deep divisions within the team during the World Cup, citing a lack of unity, poor mental preparation, and tension among the coaching staff. Captain Shakib Al Hasan made a striking allegation, claiming that BCB media committee chairman Jalal Yunus and senior player Tamim Iqbal encouraged Nasum to leak the incident to the media in a bid to build a case for Hathurusingha’s removal.
Other Key Findings from the Report:
- Frequent changes in the batting order and failure to implement proper planning were cited as major reasons behind the World Cup failure.
- Team Director Khaled Mahmud stated his role was limited and that he was not involved in tactical decisions.
- Players were often informed of their inclusion in the playing XI on match day itself.
- While Hathurusingha’s strict behavior and language barrier made some players uncomfortable, no one questioned his dedication to coaching.
- Fatigue, sudden retirement drama involving Tamim Iqbal, and intense media pressure were also considered significant factors behind the team’s poor performance.
Conclusion:
While there were no direct allegations questioning Hathurusingha’s professionalism, the Nasum incident and internal conflicts made his position increasingly vulnerable. The report also referenced Hathurusingha’s post-World Cup decision not to return to Bangladesh, citing concerns over his personal safety—an issue the BCB took seriously in its evaluation.
