Bangladesh’s upcoming T20I series in Pakistan has taken an unexpected turn as young pacer Nahid Rana, along with fielding coach James Pamment and strength and conditioning coach Nathan Keily, have withdrawn from the tour. The decision comes in the wake of recent border tensions between India and Pakistan, which left several players and staff members shaken after a dramatic evacuation from the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
The Background: Border Tensions and Player Evacuation
Nahid Rana, just 22, was representing Peshawar Zalmi in the PSL when escalating conflict between India and Pakistan forced an abrupt suspension of the tournament. Players, including Rana, were evacuated from Rawalpindi to Dubai—a military base they left was later struck by a missile in retaliatory attacks. This harrowing experience left a lasting impact on those involved, particularly Rana, who was among the international cricketers caught in the crossfire.
“What Nahid Rana and Rishad faced recently, you can’t blame them for being traumatised. Which is probably why Rana has withdrawn from the tour,” said BCB cricket operations chairman Nazmul Abedeen Fahim.
Who Else Withdrew and Why?
Rana is not the only one to opt out. Bangladesh’s fielding coach James Pamment and strength and conditioning coach Nathan Keily have also decided against joining the tour. According to Fahim, the trauma from the recent events and concerns over security in Pakistan played a significant role in their decisions.
James Pamment: Fielding coach, not traveling due to recent traumatic events.
Nathan Keily: Strength and conditioning coach, also withdrawing for similar reasons.
Other Players: Some Bangladesh players expressed initial hesitation, but most agreed to travel after assurances of security and seeing teammates commit to the tour.
BCB’s Response and Security Measures
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has stood firmly behind Rana and the coaches, expressing understanding and support for their decisions. Fahim emphasized that Pakistan’s cricket authorities have promised the “highest security” for the visiting team, referencing the high standards seen during previous major tournaments like the Champions Trophy.
Despite these assurances, the recent trauma experienced by some players and staff has understandably influenced their willingness to travel.
Tour Adjustments: Reduced Series and New Dates
Originally slated as a five-match T20I series, the tour has now been trimmed to three games. All matches will be played in Lahore at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium:
1st T20I: May 28
2nd T20I: May 30
3rd T20I: June 1
The squad will proceed without Rana, Pamment, and Keily, but the rest of the team and coaching staff remain committed to the tour.
Conclusion
Nahid Rana’s withdrawal from Bangladesh’s tour of Pakistan, along with two key support staff, highlights the real-world impact of geopolitical tensions on international cricket. While the BCB and PCB have prioritized security, the mental well-being of players and staff remains paramount. As Bangladesh prepares for a challenging series in Lahore, the team will be missing not just talent but also the reassurance of familiar support staff.
FAQs
1. Why did Nahid Rana withdraw from Bangladesh’s tour of Pakistan?
Nahid Rana pulled out due to trauma from being evacuated during the recent India-Pakistan border conflict while playing in the PSL, which left him unsettled about returning to Pakistan.
2. Which Bangladesh coaches have withdrawn from the Pakistan tour?
Fielding coach James Pamment and strength and conditioning coach Nathan Keily have both opted out, citing similar concerns about security and recent traumatic experiences.
3. How has the Bangladesh Cricket Board responded?
The BCB has supported Rana and the coaches, acknowledging the trauma and emphasizing that player and staff well-being is a priority.
4. How many matches will Bangladesh play in Pakistan?
The series has been reduced from five to three T20Is, all to be played in Lahore on May 28, 30, and June 1.
5. What security measures are in place for the tour?
The PCB has assured “the highest security” for the Bangladesh team, similar to standards during major ICC tournaments.