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Simmons aired his views on the make-up of the touring party for one-day international matches in the second part of their trip to the sub-continent.
The coach hit out at "interference from outside" as Dwayne Bravo and Kieron Pollard were both dropped from the squad - continuing their absence from the 50-over team.
Both players are thought to be keen to return to the fold under Simmons, who was appointed the permanent replacement for Otis Gibson in March.
A statement read: "The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) has learnt of the comments from head coach of the West Indies team Phil Simmons in the print and electronic media which appear to question the legitimacy of the selection process of the one-day International squad for the tour of Sri Lanka.
"As a result, the management of the WICB has taken action to suspend the head coach, pending an investigation into the issue.
"The head coach will not now travel with the team on the tour of Sri Lanka."
Eldine Baptiste - part of the West Indies selection panel - will take over Simmons' responsibilities for the matches against Sri Lanka.