CHENNAI: After being frustrated by the weather during the solitary Test, the Indian team’s preparation for the ODI series started amid concerns over their hotel in Bangladesh. Dissatisfied with restriction on “movement” and lack of “recreational options”, the visitors have requested for a change. Till Tuesday evening, local authorities were still to give them a go-ahead.
Even though the players got down to practice at the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s academy ground in Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium complex in Dhaka that will stage all three ODIs starting on Thursday, members of the delegation met officials of the host board. According to sources, “security and logistical” factors are being considered. “They have heard what we had to say. We are awaiting a reply,” a member of the contingent told Express.
Sources revealed players are comfortable at Pan Pacific Sonargaon, which was the address of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his recent trip to Dhaka. “But the area is congested and players are forbidden from leaving the hotel. This is stifling, as at times players prefer spending time outside room confines, be it for food or recreation,” said the source, preferring to remain anonymous.
Members of the squad have taken a look at other hotels and suggested The Westin in the elite suburb of Gulshan. Apart from better culinary options, the team finds the locality suitable for players to roam around and relax. Bangladeshi authorities have told Indian team officials that altering security and logistical arrangements wouldn’t be easy.
At present, Sonargaon is the address of both teams and according to the source, local security officials are finding it quite difficult to ferry them to the ground separately.
The Sonargaon has traditionally hosted teams in Dhaka and never during the last four Test trips did the Indian team express a desire to shift. In fact, instances of Indian players staying at places other than those designated for them on foreign trips are rare. Although they are trying to make an exception this time, security might prove to be a hurdle.
The Indian team had an otherwise fruitful day, as despite a mild drizzle, the players had nets. ODI skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who joined the squad with seven other specialists on Monday, was present with the rest of the squad. After rains forced a draw in the Test, the one-day series too is under a cloud, although the Indian team is happy that all three games have reserve days.
