Test Cricket’s Decline in the Age of Twenty20: A Crisis of Values and Priorities

In 2009, during an England tour, West Indies captain Chris Gayle sparked controversy when he remarked in an interview with The Guardian that he "would not feel sad if Test cricket were to die out." Gayle, the flamboyant Jamaican batter and one of the faces of the T20 revolution, unabashedly confessed his preference for the shorter, more entertaining Twenty20 (T20) format over the gruelling five-day Test. His words ignited widespread criticism from both fans and administrators, highlighting the deepening rift between the traditions of Test cricket and the commercial appeal of franchise leagues.  

A Fractured Legacy: The West Indies Dilemma  

Gayle’s controversial stance came at a time when the West Indies, once the undisputed kings of world cricket, were searching for a path back to relevance after the fall of their cricketing empire in 1995. A rare Test series victory over England in early 2009 had rekindled hope among Caribbean fans, but that glimmer of resurgence was dimmed by their crushing defeat at Lord’s in the return series. The loss wasn’t just a consequence of poor performance—it reflected a deeper cultural shift in priorities.  

Gayle had arrived late to England, prioritizing the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) over national duty. His decision was met with harsh criticism from the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) and fans, who saw it as a betrayal of the team and a dereliction of leadership. Gayle, however, defended himself, accusing the board of mismanagement for scheduling the tour during the IPL window. He warned that fixture congestion would become a persistent issue as T20 tournaments expanded and came to dominate the cricketing calendar.  

"We’ve been on the road 24/7 with no time off," Gayle lamented. His words underscored the growing tension between the demands of national cricket boards and the allure of global franchise leagues—a tension that threatens to reshape the priorities of players and the structure of international cricket itself.  

The Rise of T20: A Double-Edged Sword  

T20 cricket, undoubtedly, has injected fresh energy into the game. Its fast-paced format appeals to younger audiences provides a global platform for talent, and brings unprecedented financial rewards. But this surge of popularity has come at a cost. With players increasingly prioritizing T20 contracts over national commitments, the relevance of Test cricket—a format revered for its complexity, endurance, and artistry—is under threat.  

In the West Indies, where cricket legends like Clive Lloyd, Vivian Richards, and Garfield Sobers once inspired generations, the focus has shifted from legacy to lucrative contracts. The current crop of cricketers seems less concerned with upholding the standards of their predecessors. Franchise leagues such as the IPL, with their staggering paychecks, have become the new aspiration, reducing national duty to an afterthought. This is a troubling transformation—not just for the West Indies, but for cricket as a whole.  

The Subcontinent and the Global Shift in Priorities  

While countries like England, Australia, and New Zealand continue to value Test cricket, the situation is more precarious in other parts of the world. In the subcontinent, India’s financial muscle allows it to maintain a strong Test presence, but the outlook is less promising for nations like Pakistan and Sri Lanka. With fewer resources and diminishing fan engagement, these countries may gradually lose their edge in the longest format.  

In Bangladesh, where Test cricket has always struggled to gain a foothold, the rise of T20 presents an easy escape. The glamour of franchise leagues could overshadow the grind of five-day matches, leaving Test cricket neglected. The danger is not just a diminished Test team—it’s the erosion of the values that define cricket’s rich heritage.  

A Crisis of Values: Test Cricket as the Soul of the Game  

Test cricket, more than any other format, encapsulates the essence of cricket: patience, strategy, mental toughness, and artistry. It produces legends—players like Don Bradman and Garfield Sobers—whose greatness transcends generations. T20 cricket, though thrilling, offers neither the depth nor the nuance that makes Test cricket unique. In a world increasingly captivated by instant gratification, the longer format demands a level of commitment—both from players and fans—that feels increasingly rare.  

A Possible Solution: Relegation and Revival  

To safeguard the future of Test cricket, the cricketing think tank must act decisively. One potential solution is the introduction of a **relegation system**. Under this model, underperforming Test teams would lose their elite status and be relegated to a second tier, where they would compete in a four-day format to regain their position. While this approach might reduce the number of Test-playing nations, it would ensure that only the best teams compete at the highest level, maintaining the quality and prestige of Test cricket.  

This system would also compel struggling teams to take Test cricket seriously. If facilities, funding, and status were tied to performance, even financially weaker nations would be motivated to invest in the longer format. A relegation system would restore a sense of accountability and encourage teams to balance their focus between T20 leagues and Test commitments.  

Preserving the Legacy: A Call to Action  

The future of cricket depends on more than just commercial success; it relies on preserving the spirit that has defined the game for over a century. T20 leagues have their place—they introduce new fans to the game and provide financial stability. But they must not be allowed to overshadow the value of Test cricket. Cricket’s governing bodies, along with players and fans, must recognize that the two formats can coexist—but not at the cost of Test cricket’s integrity.  

Players like Gayle will always have their admirers—those who see nothing wrong with prioritizing personal gain over national pride. But cricket needs more than entertainers. It needs role models who understand that greatness is not just about runs or wickets—it’s about leaving a legacy.  

The younger generation, currently captivated by the glamour of T20, must be educated about the richness of the longer format. The charm of Test cricket lies not in instant gratification but in the narrative arcs it weaves over five days—battles of attrition, shifting momentum, and moments of brilliance that linger in memory.  

If cricket’s administrators fail to act, the game may lose more than just a format; it may lose its soul. The responsibility lies not just with the boards or players, but with all who love the game. Test cricket is not just a relic of the past—it is the foundation upon which the future of cricket must be built. The task ahead is to strike a balance between commercial success and sporting excellence—a balance that will ensure cricket, in all its forms, continues to flourish.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar 

The Mental Game of Batting: A Missing Element in Bangladesh’s Cricket

Batting, often regarded as an art form, extends far beyond technical prowess. The primary struggle for Bangladesh’s cricketers is not merely about technique, but something far more elusive: mental resilience. Despite access to quality coaching, the national side has repeatedly faltered due to erratic shot selection and an inability to bat under pressure, leading to significant defeats. It’s a sobering reminder that, at the highest level of cricket, it is temperament—not talent alone—that separates the exceptional from the ordinary.  

Greats like Sachin Tendulkar and Brian Lara exemplify this mastery of the mental dimension of cricket. Their batting was not just a demonstration of refined technique but also a testament to an unshakable mental routine. This deliberate mental preparation allowed them to confront any bowler, adapt to any situation, and build monumental innings. As former Australian captain Greg Chappell has outlined, success in batting hinges on three interconnected psychological stages: Awareness, Fne focus, and Fierce focus.

The Framework of Mental Routine in Batting  

Awareness:  

The first stage is a relaxed state of vigilance—a readiness without fixation. A batsman in this phase is fully conscious of the game’s rhythms and context but avoids over-focusing on any specific detail. This state is critical between deliveries and during moments of waiting to bat. It helps maintain calm and clarity, preventing mental fatigue from creeping in early. However, many Bangladeshi batters appear overwhelmed by external pressures during these moments, missing the opportunity to enter their innings with mental composure.

Fine Focus: 

As the bowler marks his run-up, the batsman shifts from broad awareness to what Chappell calls "fine focus." At this point, the batter’s attention narrows slightly, with subtle observations coming into play: the bowler’s body language, facial expressions, and emotional cues. Through this nuanced perception, great players gauge the bowler’s intentions even before the ball is released. Unfortunately, Bangladeshi players often struggle at this stage, either rushing into their stance or appearing preoccupied, missing valuable insights into the bowler’s strategy.

Fierce Focus: 

The final shift occurs at the moment of delivery. Here, the batsman achieves a state of complete concentration, with laser-sharp focus on the ball leaving the bowler’s hand. Peripheral distractions disappear, and the mind locks onto the point of release, making precise judgments on line, length, and movement. This heightened focus is essential to execute shots or defend correctly under pressure. Yet, for many Bangladeshi batsmen, the transition from awareness to fierce focus is inconsistent, resulting in hasty or ill-timed shots.  

Why Mental Discipline Remains Elusive for Bangladesh  

The issue plaguing Bangladesh’s batting is not the absence of talent—rather, it is the inability to internalize this mental framework. Players frequently fall into the trap of recklessness, indulging in needless strokes that betray impatience or insecurity. Such lapses suggest not only poor decision-making but also a failure to adopt the right psychological approach.  

Mental discipline requires conditioning that goes beyond the nets. It involves visualizing innings, managing emotions, and developing habits that foster situational awareness. The ability to transition smoothly through the phases of awareness, fine focus, and fierce focus is what allows batsmen like Tendulkar and Lara to respond instinctively rather than react impulsively. Bangladesh’s frequent batting collapses indicate that this crucial element is either inadequately addressed or lost in translation during coaching sessions.

A Path Forward: Nurturing Mental Fortitude  

Bangladesh must realize that at the elite level, cricket is as much a battle of minds as it is of skills. Building mental toughness requires persistent effort—psychological training, simulated pressure scenarios, and continuous reinforcement of focus routines. The team's management could also benefit from involving sports psychologists who specialize in mindfulness techniques, visualization, and handling high-stress situations. 

As long as Bangladeshi batsmen fail to master these mental routines, inconsistency will remain their Achilles' heel. Without mental clarity and discipline, technical brilliance will only shine sporadically. The journey toward sustained success, like Tendulkar’s iconic centuries or Lara’s marathon innings, will remain out of reach. Batting, after all, is not just a physical pursuit—it is a test of character, concentration, and the will to prevail.  

In the end, it’s not enough to teach technique; it’s essential to instil temperament. Until Bangladesh’s cricketers learn to harness their mental game, they will continue to flounder at the highest level, their potential unrealized, and their promise unfulfilled.

 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Redemption at Mirpur: A Tale of Revenge and Reawakening

Cricket, in Bangladesh, is more than just a sport—it’s an emotional lifeline. When the Tigers collapsed for a mere 58 runs against the West Indies in a World Cup encounter at Mirpur, it wasn't just a loss—it was a national heartbreak. Fans were stunned, disheartened, and outraged. The dismal showing wasn’t just seen as a setback but as a blow to national pride, one that haunted both the players and their devoted supporters long after the game was over.  

Yet, in cricket, as in life, redemption is always around the corner. Bangladesh managed a tense victory against England in their next game, but the bitter taste of humiliation lingered. The desire for poetic justice grew stronger with every passing day. The Tigers and their passionate followers didn’t just crave a win—they longed for vengeance, the kind that would mirror the pain inflicted by the West Indies.

And when the opportunity arrived, the Tigers roared with fury.  

The Fire Rekindled  

After two underwhelming performances in the opening matches of the ODI series, Bangladesh's bowlers appeared to have lost their bite. But something shifted—whether it was pride, determination, or the sting of old wounds, the Tigers rediscovered their edge. The West Indies, confident and composed at 33 for 1, looked set for another solid performance. However, the mood changed in an instant.  

Enter Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh’s talisman. On this day, he wasn’t just a cricketer—he was a force of reckoning. With surgical precision, Shakib tore through the middle and lower order, turning the match on its head. His spell of 4 for 16 was more than just numbers; it was a performance laden with purpose, driven by a deep-seated desire to exorcise the ghosts of Mirpur. In the blink of an eye, the West Indian batting lineup, once brimming with confidence, crumbled. By the 22nd over, it was all over—their innings lay in ruins.  

A Nation Rejoices  

For Bangladesh, this victory wasn’t just a win on the scoreboard—it was emotional catharsis. Fans erupted in joy, their faith restored as the Tigers avenged their humiliation in the same ruthless manner they had once endured. The parallels with the World Cup collapse made the triumph even sweeter. It was as though the cricketing gods had granted Bangladesh the justice they so desperately sought.  

While the ODI series was lost, this particular win was a moment of immense satisfaction. It wasn’t just about levelling a score—it was about reclaiming lost pride and proving that the Tigers could roar when it mattered most.  

Beyond Revenge: A Glimpse of the Future  

Though revenge offers momentary gratification, this victory holds deeper significance for Bangladesh cricket. It serves as a reminder of the team’s potential and resilience. For a side that has often oscillated between brilliance and mediocrity, this win might become a turning point, injecting much-needed confidence and belief.  

At this moment, however, the nation's heart beats with joy. For now, it is enough to know that the pain of the past has been answered with a triumph that mirrors its depth. The Tigers have roared, and in doing so, they have reminded the world—and themselves—of their true spirit.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

 

Bangladesh cricket - It's Time To Show Faith In Alok Kapali

 

Alok Kapali, once a bright star in Bangladesh cricket, has long navigated a challenging journey marked by both brilliance and setbacks. After a prolonged absence following his return from the controversial Indian Cricket League (ICL), Kapali has been named in the squad for the upcoming T20 and ODI series against the West Indies. His inclusion brings to light the unresolved tension between raw talent and unrealized potential that has often defined his career.

Since his debut against Sri Lanka in 2002, Kapali’s skill set was apparent to even the harshest critics. Bangladesh may have faltered as a team in that series, but Kapali stood out, impressing observers with his refined technique and admirable temperament. In those early years, batting at No. 5 or No. 6, he confronted some of the fiercest fast bowlers in world cricket with an approach that exuded maturity beyond his years. Whether accelerating the run rate or anchoring the innings, Kapali demonstrated a versatility that set him apart.

As a bowler, Kapali has never been a significant turner of the ball, but his role has always been more about precision and control than extravagant spin. His ability to deliver consistently under pressure culminated in a landmark achievement: the first and only Test hat-trick for Bangladesh, a testament to his flair for rising to the occasion.

However, Kapali’s career took a sharp detour with his participation in the ICL, leading to a 10-year ban from international cricket. Though he exited the ICL after one season and returned to domestic cricket with renewed determination, his road back to national selection was anything but smooth. Despite strong domestic performances, the selectors seemed to favour players like Raqibul Islam and Mohammad Ashraful, leaving Kapali on the sidelines. This decision, though perplexing, was perhaps a reflection of the cricket board’s caution rather than a fair judgment of Kapali’s abilities.

In contrast, Mohammad Ashraful, a player of immense natural talent, has often failed to deliver the consistency expected at the international level. Despite his occasional brilliance, his record is peppered with disappointing performances. Kapali, on the other hand, has shown greater mental resilience and reliability, qualities that are crucial in international cricket. His temperament, arguably his greatest asset, could provide the stability Bangladesh’s middle order desperately needs.

The upcoming series against the West Indies presents a critical juncture. The Caribbean side has long struggled against quality leg-spin, and this is where Kapali’s inclusion could prove to be a masterstroke. His ability to stifle the opposition with his controlled leg-breaks adds a dimension to Bangladesh’s bowling attack that could exploit the West Indies' known weaknesses. 

The debate now centres around whether Kapali will be picked in the first XI. Ashraful’s name may still hold sway with the selectors, but Kapali, Bangladesh has a cricketer who brings both experience and a measured temperament to the table. Slotting him at No. 4 in the limited-overs format could provide the team with a more balanced approach in the middle overs, especially against an unpredictable West Indies side.

Kapali’s return to the fold is a narrative of resilience, and if given the opportunity, he has the potential to cement his place in the team once again. His journey is a reminder that talent when paired with perseverance, can often outshine even the brightest prodigies. All eyes will now be on whether this opportunity marks the rebirth of a career that has, at times, felt unjustly sidelined.

 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi: The Architect of Modern Indian Cricket

Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi, fondly known as "Tiger," was not just a cricketer of immense talent—he was a visionary who redefined Indian cricket at a time when conservatism and defensive thinking dominated the sport in the country. His approach to the game was not merely a deviation from tradition but a bold statement, challenging entrenched norms and inspiring a team that had long been content with draws to pursue victory.  

In an era where the Indian cricket team played with caution, often treating survival as success, Pataudi’s mindset was ahead of its time. He rejected the prevailing ethos of self-preservation and instilled in his teammates the belief that cricket could be a platform for daring expression and audacity. His influence marked the beginning of India’s evolution from a timid side to one that dared to dream of competing with, and defeating, the best teams in the world.  

A Revolutionary with the Bat: Bold, Unorthodox, and Fearless

Pataudi's batting style was a deliberate rebellion against the conservative school of thought that frowned upon taking risks. In an age when purists disapproved of aerial shots, Pataudi brought flair and aggression to his batting, laying the groundwork for the dynamic stroke play that has now become second nature to modern cricketers. His innings of 103 against Ted Dexter’s England in 1961 exemplified this fearlessness. Scoring those runs in just 155 minutes, Pataudi showcased not only his skill but also a brand of cricket that was refreshingly aggressive, helping India secure its first Test series victory against England.  

While his methods did not always win the approval of traditionalists, his batting was magnetic, drawing crowds to the stadiums. He was, in many ways, a precursor to the modern cricketer—uncompromising, inventive, and willing to take the game to the opposition. Had Pataudi played in the era of Twenty20 cricket, his innovative stroke play and attacking mindset would have made him a superstar, perfectly suited to the demands of the limited-overs formats.  

Electric on the Field: Redefining the Role of Fielding 

During Pataudi’s time, fielding was treated as a peripheral part of the game, particularly in the subcontinent. Teams focused almost exclusively on batting and bowling, with little emphasis on athleticism in the field. But Pataudi, with his sharp reflexes and feline agility, changed that perception. He fielded with the brilliance that India would later see in players like Mohammad Azharuddin, Yuvraj Singh, and Mohammad Kaif. His fielding was not just aesthetically pleasing; it was effective, bringing an element of sharpness to the team’s performance that had previously been absent.  

More importantly, Pataudi’s fielding sent a message—**excellence in every aspect of the game matters**. It made his teammates realize that fielding could be a decisive factor in winning matches. His commitment to this often-overlooked discipline laid the foundation for the rise of athleticism in Indian cricket, which has now become a hallmark of the team.  

Captaincy: The Game-Changer Who Dared to Dream  

While Pataudi’s batting and fielding were exceptional, it was his captaincy that truly cemented his place in Indian cricket folklore. Appointed captain at the young age of 21—following a tragic accident that cost him vision in his right eye—Pataudi led the team with rare courage and ingenuity. At a time when Indian cricket was synonymous with caution, he redefined success, challenging the long-held belief that securing a draw was as good as a victory.  

His captaincy was daring, unpredictable, and infused with a spirit of adventure. Pataudi’s India was infuriating to watch but never boring. His tactical decisions often caught the opposition off-guard, and he infused his players with the belief that even under seemingly impossible circumstances, victory was within reach. It was under his leadership that the Indian team developed the mental strength to compete at the highest level, learning to dream of wins rather than just survival.  

Pataudi’s teams did not always win, but they fought fiercely, and more importantly, they learned to believe in themselves. His bold leadership nurtured a culture that would later bloom under captains like Kapil Dev and Sourav Ganguly—leaders who embodied Pataudi’s legacy of ambition and fearless cricket.  

A Player Beyond Eras: Timeless in Spirit and Skill

Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi was the kind of cricketer who transcends generations, fitting effortlessly into any era. Like Sir Donald Bradman, Sir Garfield Sobers, and the 3Ws (Walcott, Weekes, and Worrell), Pataudi’s cricketing ethos was universal. His daring batting would have made him an icon in modern formats like ODIs and T20s. His sharp fielding would have been an invaluable asset to any side, and his aggressive captaincy would have thrived in today’s cricket, where tactical boldness is rewarded.  

In a world where cricket has evolved into a spectacle of athleticism, innovation, and strategy, Pataudi would not only have adapted—he would have flourished. He belonged to that rare breed of cricketers whose contributions go beyond statistics and records; he redefined how the game was played and how it was perceived.  

The Legacy of a Pioneer

Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi’s influence on Indian cricket is immeasurable. He was more than just a talented cricketer—he was a pioneer, a dreamer, and a leader who dared to break free from the shackles of tradition. At a time when Indian cricket was content with mediocrity, Pataudi’s audacity and vision transformed it into a force that could stand toe-to-toe with the giants of the game.  

His legacy lives on in the fearless approach that defines Indian cricket today. Every time an Indian captain makes a bold move, every time a fielder pulls off a spectacular catch, and every time a batsman plays a daring stroke, the spirit of Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi echoes on the field.

Tiger Pataudi was not just ahead of his time—he was timeless. His contributions to Indian cricket remain etched in the annals of the game, a reminder that courage and innovation are the foundations upon which greatness is built.  

Farewell, Tiger: A Cricketer for All-Time

In the grand narrative of cricket, few players have left a legacy as profound as Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi. His passing marks the end of an era, but his spirit endures in every fearless decision, every audacious stroke, and every display of athletic brilliance on the field.  

Rest in peace, Tiger.

Your legacy is not confined to the past—it lives on, shaping the future of Indian cricket and inspiring generations to come.

 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar