Simmons Urges Bangladeshi Players to Avoid Social Media

His remarks came after opener Naim Sheikh posted a response to critics on social media, following a hostile reception the team received at the airport upon their return from the UAE.

During their tour, Bangladesh struggled in the Asia Cup T20 but bounced back with a clean sweep in the T20I series against Afghanistan, who use the UAE as their home venue. However, that momentum was short-lived, as they were comprehensively whitewashed 3-0 in the ODI series against the same opponent.

Bangladesh failed to bat out their full quota of 50 overs in any of the three ODIs and were bowled out inside 30 overs in the final two matches — prompting strong backlash from fans and media.

Simmons addressed the issue in a press conference, saying:

"Okay, I'm glad you brought it up because, first of all, I don't agree with players having anything to do with social media.
It is your right as a person to be on social media and say what you want. But as international cricketers representing Bangladesh, I believe my players should stay away from it."

He also condemned the racial abuse directed at wicketkeeper-batter Jaker Ali Anik.

"I would say one thing — it's not okay to bring racial tones into anything related to the players. I don’t care where you're from, the racial abuse against Jaker Ali disgusted me. That’s unacceptable.
But again, I don’t want my players responding to anything on social media."

Simmons further threw his support behind Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who captained Bangladesh during the tour and managed just one win in 10 matches.

"You can’t judge his captaincy just based on runs scored or not chased. On the field, I think his leadership has been good," said Simmons.
"Winning games also depends on your batsmen. If they’re not scoring the runs, you’re always going to be in trouble."

Simmons' comments reflect a call for composure, unity, and professionalism within the team, as they look to bounce back from a difficult tour.