Greenidge about to be axed? (29 May 1999)

29 May 1999

Greenidge about to be axed?

Nizamuddin Ahmed

LONDON, May 28: Bangladesh Cricket Board may serve an official letter to its coach Gordon Greenidge, informing that his services are no longer required.

The buttoned-up Barbadian is likely to get the axe even before the last match of Bangladesh against Pakistan on May 31, said a BCB source, preferring anonymity.

As it is, the coach has not been performing his duties and has not been involved in matters of the team for the past two matches. In addition to that the former West Indian opener, whose 3-year contract with the Board ends after the World Cup, made some uncalled for statements about Bangladesh cricket to the English press, violating the code of conduct.

Taking the cue from the coach, Bangladesh team meanwhile violated a decision of the Board and went to attend a reception at Manchester today. Some members of the team did not attend, presumably in protest.

Earlier the team checked out of its Durham Hotel and would rest from tonight at the Swallow Hotel in Northampton, in preparation of their final group match against Pakistan on May 31.

The journey to Manchester to attend a private reception meant an extra four hours journey that would add to their fatigue. The team was also unable to attend today's practice something of which they could not have enough.

The BCB had resolved in Dhaka, according to a member, that the Bangladesh team would only attend reception to be organised through the High Commission in London. The mission was also informed accordingly.

In line with the decision, the Bangladesh team had to refuse many invitations by friends and well-wishers. But, on Friday, the cricketers for some unknown reason gave in to a private party at Manchester.

Such developments will not help the Bangladesh cause, according to another BCB high-up, requesting anonymity because he did not want to upset anyone while on a tour.

"All will be revealed in good time,' he said.

Source :: The Daily Star