Coach Issues

[Ian Pont]

There are some inherent issues with coaches coming to Bangladesh and staying, or wanting to stay.

It isn't a financial issue (except in my case) usually. It is more often than not a realisation that differences are hard to make. We all know why those differences are hard to make and that it takes a special type of coach to want to stay and 'guts it out' when there are many issues out of their control, that affect the performance of players and the teams in Bangladesh.

It says much when coaches already employed by Bangladesh apply for other roles with rivals, as happened with Stuart Barnes and Shane Jurgensen over the Pakistan bowling coach role, but it is understandable if people feel frustrated or unable to make much headway.

Jamie Siddons wanted to stay another two years at least when he left. He was committed to BD and was so sad to leave. Julien Fountain similarly. Stuart Law and Richard Pybus perhaps have different views over their time with BD.

The key is in finding coaches committed to stay, happy to roll up their sleeves and work hard, plus be determined to genuinely make a difference.

BD deserves coaches who are not simply 'career' coaches looking to add Test countries to their cricket coaching CV, or 'have a go' at it. The roles in BD are varied, tough and fans are emotional about their team. Living in Dhaka when you come from London, Brisbane, Cape Town or Johannesburg, is a challenge. Most that come I feel never settle.

Grant Luden is a great example of someone terrific and loyal. 4 years as conditioning coach and one of the very best appointments. BD needs like-minded coaches who are prepared for the long haul.... the BCB then needs to reward and retain these rare breeds.

Identifying them first is the key role, because it is unlikely to be a big name.