Simmons defends Jaker

Bangladesh sealed the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan with a game in hand. The Tigers clinched the trophy with a nail-biting 2-wicket victory in the second match.

Captain Jaker Ali Anik had been under fire for his prolonged run of poor form. But in this match, his 25-ball 32-run innings guided Bangladesh towards the chase. He even struck a six after a long gap, which seemed to restore his confidence. Although Bangladesh lost both Jaker and Shamim late in the innings and came under pressure, Nurul Hasan Sohan and Shoriful Islam’s composed finish ensured the series win.

Speaking about Jaker’s recent criticism, Bangladesh head coach Phil Simmons said after the match: “It’s quite normal worldwide that players don’t score runs in a few games. The same happened with Jaker. I don’t see it as a problem at all; it’s just part of a batter’s career.”

When asked whether the team lacks middle-order batters, Simmons replied: “We have plenty of middle-order options. Today the ones who got the chance delivered. Everyone is improving day by day.”