Bangladesh head coach Phil Simmons has issued a bold statement before the Asia Cup 2025 Super Fours clash against India, making it clear that his side will not be overawed by the reigning world champions. The Dubai International Cricket Stadium will host the highly anticipated contest on Wednesday.
“Every team has the ability to beat India,” said Simmons. “The game is played on the day. It’s not what India has done before. It’s what happens on Wednesday. It’s what happens during that three and a half hour period. We will try to play as best as we can and hope to find chinks in India’s armoury. That’s the way we win games.”
Tigers Seek to Carry Momentum Forward
The Tigers approach the contest full of confidence after their spirited victory over Sri Lanka in the opening Super Fours match. Simmons encouraged his players to thrive under the spotlight and enjoy the occasion.
“Every game, especially games involving India, have a hype because they’re the number one T20 team in the world. There must be a hype. We’re just going to ride on the hype. We’re going to enjoy the moment and enjoy the game,” he explained.
Simmons on Conditions and Preparation
The head coach praised the batting-friendly pitch at the Dubai venue, insisting the toss would not play a decisive role.
“I didn’t see much of a difference in the wicket over the 40 overs. The wicket was really good to bat. Bowlers had to bowl properly. I don’t think the toss has that much of an effect,” he said.
He also highlighted the physical demands of playing in the UAE heat but backed his squad’s readiness. “It is challenging to play back-to-back T20 matches, back-to-back ODIs. However, we are again prepared; we have trained really hard. I think the guys are fit enough to handle it,” Simmons noted.
Strategy Built on Consistency
Discussing Bangladesh’s approach, Simmons emphasised stability over risky moves. “Since I’ve been here, we’ve tried to make sure that this is the way we want to play. And we’ve picked the correct players to play that way. And so far, it’s benefitted us.”
Despite heavy scrutiny from supporters back home, the coach insisted he remains composed. “As long as I’m confident and my staff and myself, including the captain, are confident in what we’re doing, then criticism is like water off a duck’s back,” he concluded.
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