Bangladesh like us can blow hot and cold: Kyle Jarvis

 
Kyle Jarvis burst into the scene a couple years ago and his precision with the ball did not go unnoticed. He is a precious ornament for world cricket and if Zimbabwe cricket stabilizes, Jarvis can contribute a lot to Test and 50-over formats. 

He found a bit of time to talk to Fenomeno Blog. 

Fenomeno: What motivated you to get into cricket?

Kyle Jarvis (KJ): Growing up. I was always around cricket and cricketers as my dad was always involved in the Zimbabwe set-up.

Fenomeno: How influential has been your father in building up your career?

KJ: My father has always been the one pushing me and giving me the drive to become who I am today.

Fenomeno: Your action is quite similar to Glenn McGrath's. Is McGrath your role model?

KJ: .I grew up watching the Aussies dominate the world cricket. Glenn and Brett Lee have always been role models of mine.

Fenomeno: What’s the secret behind the brilliant control over your bowling?

KJ: A few years ago I was only about all out pace but I lacked control, I think I have found a happy medium of control, pace and swing..... Nothing helps more than many tough hours in the nets.

Fenomeno: Which is your favourite wicket in Test cricket till now?

KJ: Shiv Chanderpaul.

Fenomeno: Do you think that there is a lack of fast and swing bowlers in modern-day cricket?

KJ: There are still class bowlers around still swinging it, Dale Steyn and James Anderson are two of the best.

Fenomeno: Are the current rules, too many flat tracks and too much of T20 cricket hampering the growth of genuine fast bowlers?

KJ: To an extent yes, but still there are class bowlers in the international circuit... Bowlers can't just be fast anymore, you need to have at least 2 different slower balls as well as a good yorker and a bouncer.

Fenomeno: How do you rate Bangladesh as a cricket team?

KJ: Bangladesh like us can blow hot and cold. I feel at home we will have the advantage... But they have good players in Shakib, Tamim and Mushfiqur Rahim...

Fenomeno: What are your thoughts regarding the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh?

KJ: Extremely important series for us as we did not do ourselves proud in the West Indies and we know how good we can be!

Fenomeno: Have you targeted any batsman from Bangladesh?

KJ: I’m targeting all their batsmen.

Fenomeno: Tell us about your team’s preparation regarding the series against Bangladesh?

KJ: We have had a few hiccups in the preparation regarding a few players not being offered contracts but that has all been rectified and the guys’ minds are fully ready for the job at hand.

Fenomeno: You are a brilliant bowler and there are many hidden talents I guess in Zimbabwe like you? Don’t you think you guys deserve enough exposure at the highest level?

KJ: We definitely need more international cricket, we had one test match in 2012, no team can grow with such little exposure. The talent is definitely here.

Fenomeno: Have you received any offers from County Cricket?

KJ: One county has shown interest in me, it is definitely something that I would like to do is a season of county cricket and I'm sure I will soon.

Fenomeno: Now tell us something about your personal life…..

KJ:.I love the outdoors and doing anything active.

Fenomeno: Thank you so much Kyle for talking with Fenomeno. Do you have any message for the readers of this blog?

KJ: It’s been a pleasure and thank you for the continuous support. Never stop pushing to be the best!

Thank You
Faisal Caesar

Redemption in Harare: Bangladesh’s Quest to Conquer Past Ghosts Against Zimbabwe

The cricketing world is gripped by the dazzling spectacle of the Indian Premier League, where glamour and money intertwine to create a show so radiant it’s almost blinding. Amid the glitter and noise of IPL 6, the quiet, enduring world of Test cricket continues its journey, this time pausing in Zimbabwe. Here, on April 17, two of cricket's quieter giants—Zimbabwe and Bangladesh—will lock horns in a two-match Test series that, while lacking the fanfare of a larger rivalry, holds deep significance for the teams and their devoted followers.

Historically, Test battles between Bangladesh and Zimbabwe have lacked the thrilling, epic clashes seen elsewhere in cricket. Their head-to-head encounters have often been lopsided, drawing little attention from the global cricketing community. Yet, for Bangladeshi fans, this series holds an undeniable importance, carrying echoes of the painful memory of 2011. That year, Zimbabwe’s then-inexperienced squad, newly returned to Test cricket after a six-year hiatus, stunned a seasoned Bangladesh side with a 130-run victory in Harare. It was a defeat that struck at the core of Bangladesh’s pride and exposed deep flaws in their game. For Bangladesh, the scars of that loss remain, and the team is determined not to let history repeat itself.

Since that humbling defeat, Bangladesh has transformed itself from a side often on the back foot to one far more formidable and self-assured. The Tigers have developed into a team full of resilience, confidence, and resolve. Their recent tour of Sri Lanka showed this progress; even without some of their key players, Bangladesh managed to push the home team and make them sweat, demonstrating both depth and character. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, has struggled to maintain momentum since 2011. Their Test performances have largely been marked by lacklustre displays and comprehensive losses, giving Bangladesh an apparent edge.

However, Zimbabwe has traditionally been a challenging destination for Bangladesh. The Harare pitch—with its characteristic bounce and seam movement—has often posed problems for Bangladeshi batsmen, who find its pace and unpredictability difficult to handle. Kyle Jarvis, the pacer who was instrumental in Zimbabwe’s famous win two years ago, will again be a central figure in their attack. Since then, Jarvis has only grown in skill and confidence, evolving into a more dangerous threat capable of unsettling even experienced batsmen. For Bangladesh to prevail, their batsmen will need to be sharp, displaying strong defensive techniques and footwork. Head coach Shane Jurgensen and captain Mushfiqur Rahim would be wise to analyze Jarvis’s approach and strategize carefully against his incisive deliveries. Brendan Taylor and Hamilton Masakadza, too, bring skill and experience to the Zimbabwe lineup, adding more layers of challenge for Bangladesh.

While Zimbabwe has yet to deliver a standout performance since that memorable victory, they remain an unpredictable force at home, particularly against Bangladesh. Though bolstered by experience and confidence, the Bangladesh side will need to avoid underestimating Zimbabwe’s strength in their territory. The return of stalwarts like Tamim Iqbal, Shakib Al Hasan, and Shahriar Nafees should boost Bangladesh’s batting, while the inclusion of Enamul Haque Jr. strengthens their bowling arsenal. The spinners are expected to play a vital role in testing Zimbabwe’s batting lineup on their own turf, offering Bangladesh an edge in this series.

For Bangladesh, a loss to Zimbabwe is as stinging as an Ashes defeat would be for an Australian. There is more than national pride at stake here; this series represents a chance to turn past regrets into present triumphs. With greater resources, experience, and skill, Bangladesh has the tools to conquer Zimbabwe this time around. But these tools must be wielded effectively, and every player must step up to avoid the pitfalls of complacency. Only through diligence and disciplined execution can Bangladesh lay to rest the ghosts of 2011 and chart a path to victory.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Reviving Bangladesh’s Pace Bowling: The Need for a Fast-Bowling Revolution

Bangladesh cricket, with its arsenal of emerging talent, often dazzles with flashes of brilliance. Batsmen can occasionally produce masterful innings, and the country's spinners are among the most skilful in the game. Yet, inconsistency—particularly in the fast-bowling department—continues to hamper the team’s ambitions, especially in the Test format. Despite Bangladesh’s evident cricketing potential, the recurring issue of pace bowling depth has been a significant limitation, a problem that has persisted since the team’s inception into the international arena.

The Spin Bias and its Long-Standing Influence

Bangladesh’s success in spin bowling has been one of its hallmark strengths. Players like Mohammad Rafique, Shakib Al Hasan, Enamul Haque Jr., and Abdur Razzak have created an impressive legacy in the left-arm spin. This tradition has, however, unintentionally skewed the aspirations of younger cricketers towards spin, as they look to these figures for inspiration and see spin as a proven path to success in Bangladesh cricket.

This trend is further reinforced by Bangladesh’s spin-friendly pitches. Known for being slow and low, these tracks favour spin over pace, making it challenging for young players who wish to pursue fast bowling. In such conditions, any pace bowler’s hard work is often diminished, with deliveries that lose their impact on flat surfaces, discouraging youth from taking up fast bowling seriously.

Structural Gaps in Talent Identification and Nurturing

While Bangladesh hosted programs like the nationwide pace-bowling hunt about a decade ago, initiatives like these remain rare and irregular. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has made limited progress in continuously scouting and nurturing pace talent. Moreover, talent identification efforts are often urban-centric, with scouts focusing on major cities, leaving rural areas largely untapped. In Bangladesh, rural youth often possess natural attributes ideal for fast bowling, such as stamina, physique, and resilience—qualities that are difficult to cultivate artificially but are often innate due to physically demanding lifestyles.

A visit to rural areas, such as Komarpur High School Ground in Faridpur, illustrates this point well. During informal cricket matches, rural youth often showcase promising physicality, rhythm, and raw bowling skills. However, they lack access to proper coaching and technical guidance—factors essential for professional development. For many families, cricket remains a recreational activity rather than a viable career path, largely due to financial constraints and limited opportunities in professional cricket.

The Need for a Specialized Fast-Bowling Academy

To shift Bangladesh’s pace bowling trajectory, establishing a specialized fast-bowling academy could be a pivotal step. While the BKSP has been a foundational training institution for Bangladesh cricket, it lacks the targeted focus required to consistently develop high-quality fast bowlers. A dedicated academy for fast bowling would provide structured, technical coaching focused on refining and nurturing raw pace talent.

Guidance from experienced fast-bowling coaches such as Ian Pont, Dennis Lillee, Geoff Thomson, Andy Roberts, or Wasim Akram could be transformative. Such coaches bring decades of expertise and advanced training methods that could help young Bangladeshi bowlers develop the mental and physical rigour required to succeed at the highest levels. For a national setup aiming to strengthen its pace bowling department, this academy could serve as the core, housing both local talent and knowledge from international fast-bowling experts.

Financial and Strategic Feasibility

From a financial perspective, setting up this academy is a realistic and potentially rewarding investment. The BCB has substantial resources, and additional support could likely be obtained from the Bangladesh government, given the potential national pride and prestige that comes with international cricket success. The benefits of investing in pace bowling extend beyond cricketing success alone; a strong pace department could inspire confidence and enthusiasm among youth across the country, helping to diversify Bangladesh’s cricketing strengths.

A Crucial Step for Sustained Success in Test Cricket

For Bangladesh to achieve sustained success, especially in Tests, a balanced bowling attack is essential. On foreign pitches that reward speed and bounce, spinners like Shakib Al Hasan or even Sohag Gazi cannot carry the entire burden. Developing a fast-bowling core that can consistently perform in diverse conditions will be instrumental in achieving the team's long-term ambitions, enabling Bangladesh to regularly compete with—and defeat—top-tier international teams.

Bangladesh cricket is at a strategic juncture. By prioritizing a dedicated fast-bowling academy and enhancing outreach efforts to include rural regions, the country can tap into an untapped reservoir of potential. With concerted effort and investment, Bangladesh has the opportunity to rewrite its fast-bowling narrative and secure a more balanced and formidable position in the international cricket arena.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Nasir Hossain: The Finisher Bangladesh Never Knew They Needed

In a rain-interrupted thriller at Kandy, Bangladesh found themselves on the cusp of another heartbreak, chasing a revised target of 183 in 27 overs against Sri Lanka. The task, daunting yet achievable, began smoothly as Mohammad Ashraful and Anamul Haque provided a promising start. But as has often been the case with Bangladesh’s cricketing fortunes, panic took hold. A few rash strokes and unnecessary dismissals, including a reckless run-out involving skipper Mushfiqur Rahim, left Bangladesh in familiar territory—staring at yet another squandered opportunity. Yet, amidst the chaos, one man stood resolute:

Nasir Hossain.

Nasir embodied the qualities that every team craves in a crisis—a calm demeanour, strategic thinking, and the ability to assess situations with precision. When the match threatened to slip from Bangladesh’s grasp, Nasir anchored the chase with a blend of maturity and flair, setting the stage for a historic triumph. As wickets tumbled around him, Nasir manoeuvred the innings like a craftsman, pacing his assault perfectly for the final overs.

The Cold-Blooded Assault: Nasir’s Calculated Brilliance

With Bangladesh needing 17 runs off the last two overs and the pressure mounting, Nasir summoned his inner steel. Batting alongside the tail, he knew the responsibility was his alone. His approach was clinical, not flamboyant. Against Thisara Perera—a bowler known for troubling batsmen in tight situations—Nasir displayed the calm ruthlessness that separates great finishers from ordinary ones.

The first ball of the 25th over was driven powerfully past extra cover for four, a shot that echoed elegance and intent. Perera’s next delivery was dispatched over cow corner with a calculated swing of the bat, as Nasir reduced the equation to eight off ten balls. A moment of brilliance from Nuwan Kulasekara—leaping acrobatically to save a six—briefly delayed the inevitable, but Nasir’s assault had already broken Sri Lanka’s resistance. In a fitting end, it was Sohag Gazi’s unconventional glide over the keeper’s head that secured a historic win, but the victory belonged to Nasir.

Without Nasir Hossain’s unwavering presence at the crease, Bangladesh would have sunk into familiar disappointment. His innings were not just a personal triumph but a significant moment in Bangladesh’s cricketing evolution—a rare instance of controlled aggression and composure in a high-pressure chase.

Nasir’s Rise: A Journey Rooted in Composure and Talent

Nasir Hossain's story is one of quiet perseverance. At 13, he joined Bangladesh’s sports institute, where his talent quickly turned heads. By 16, he was playing for the national Under-19 team, and soon after, he earned a place in the renowned first-class side, **Abahani Limited**. There were doubts about whether such a young player could handle the pressures of domestic cricket, but Nasir’s temperament proved critics wrong. His fearlessness shone through early on—opening the bowling against none other than Sanath Jayasuriya, a legend of the game. It was a defining moment, hinting at the mental fortitude that would become his trademark.

Nasir’s international debut came against Zimbabwe in 2011, where he immediately showcased his potential. With Bangladesh reeling at 58 for 6, Nasir’s composed 68 rescued the innings from complete collapse. Though Bangladesh lost that match, Nasir’s performance was a glimpse of things to come. Later that year, he scored his maiden ODI century against Pakistan at Mirpur, further cementing his place as a dependable performer. 

Since then, Nasir has grown into one of Bangladesh’s most consistent cricketers. In both Tests and ODIs, his batting average has exceeded that of many top-order batsmen, hovering above 40—an exceptional feat for someone who often bats with the tail. His ability to adapt to different formats underscores his versatility. Whether the situation demands stability or aggression, Nasir can seamlessly switch gears, embodying the perfect blend of patience and explosiveness.

More than Just a Batsman: Nasir’s All-Round Value

Nasir Hossain’s talent extends beyond batting. His off-spin bowling, often underestimated, has proved to be a handy weapon. He possesses an uncanny ability to outfox batsmen, using subtle variations in flight and length to disrupt rhythm. His ability to bowl tight overs in crucial moments adds depth to Bangladesh’s bowling attack. Moreover, Nasir’s fielding is electrifying—a reflection of his athleticism and sharp reflexes. He often patrols the infield with an infectious energy, pulling off stunning saves and turning half-chances into run-outs. In every sense, Nasir is a complete package—a rare all-rounder who contributes across all departments.

The Art of Finishing: A Rare Breed in Modern Cricket

Cricket has seen many great finishers, but they are a rare breed. The art of finishing requires not just technical prowess but an unflinching temperament—a cool head amidst chaos. Great finishers possess a unique ability to stay calm under immense pressure, calculating risks with precision while others falter. Nasir Hossain has all the makings of such a cricketer. His Kandy heroics were a testament to his ability to remain unfazed by the magnitude of the moment, guiding his team home with composure and purpose.

For years, Bangladesh struggled to find a player who could reliably close out matches—a role that demands a specific mindset. Finishers must be willing to shoulder the weight of responsibility, knowing that the game often hinges on their decisions in the final overs. Nasir has embraced this role with confidence, and his performance at Kandy signals his readiness to carry that mantle for years to come.

Nasir’s Legacy: An Asset for Bangladesh and Beyond

Nasir Hossain is not just an asset for Bangladesh cricket—he is a player whose value extends to the broader cricketing world. His consistency across formats, coupled with his ability to perform under pressure, places him among the finest emerging talents in the game. As he matures, Nasir has the potential to become one of cricket’s most reliable finishers, a player capable of shaping the outcome of matches with his cool-headed brilliance.

In a cricketing landscape that often celebrates flashy performances and individual brilliance, Nasir’s success lies in his understated elegance and quiet determination. He is not one to hog the limelight, but his contributions are no less impactful. With every measured innings and every clutch performance, Nasir Hossain is writing his own chapter in Bangladesh’s cricketing history—a chapter filled with grit, versatility, and moments of magic.

As Bangladesh cricket continues to evolve, players like Nasir will play a pivotal role in shaping its future. His journey from a promising teenager to a reliable match-winner is a story of hard work and resilience, a reminder that great cricketers are often forged in moments of adversity. With time, Nasir Hossain could well become one of the most celebrated finishers in world cricket—an emblem of Bangladesh’s rise and a beacon for the next generation.

 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Thee Epic Vigil: England’s Defiant Draw in New Zealand and the Subtle Beauty of Test Cricket

In an era obsessed with the fast-paced glamour of T20 leagues and the frenzy of ODI spectacles, Test cricket often finds itself overlooked, reduced to whispers amidst the noise. And yet, hidden away from the spotlight, New Zealand and England gifted us a Test series that embodied the heart and soul of the longest format—a thrilling narrative of resilience, strategy, and endurance. While the world was enraptured by Dhawan’s flamboyant strokeplay, Dhoni’s captaincy wizardry, and Jadeja’s sharp turners dismantling Australia, this series quietly unfolded like a masterpiece waiting to be discovered.

Amid Bangladesh’s spirited performances against Sri Lanka and Pakistan’s valiant—but ultimately futile—challenge against South Africa, few spared a thought for New Zealand’s duel with England. The Kiwis, fresh from a dismal tour of South Africa, lacked the kind of star power that attracts mass attention. There were no “million-dollar babies,” no glitzy reputations to stoke excitement. For many, it was just another low-key contest, easily forgotten. Yet, those who dared to watch were treated to a story of cricketing artistry and nerve, reminding us why Test cricket remains the purest form of the game.

A Test Series in the Shadow of Giants

While Australia’s capitulation in India made global headlines, cricket lovers seemed to overlook the battle brewing in New Zealand. But for the connoisseur willing to peer beneath the surface, the series between New Zealand and England offered scintillating cricket. The first two Tests, played in Dunedin and Wellington, were filled with high-quality performances—centuries from Hamish Rutherford, Alastair Cook, and Brendon McCullum; and an exhibition of masterful swing bowling by Trent Boult and Neil Wagner. 

Yet, despite these displays, the real crescendo arrived at Auckland—where Test cricket reached one of its most dramatic peaks. With New Zealand dominating for the better part of five days, most believed the final Test would end in a routine Kiwi victory. England, facing a target of 481 and needing 391 more runs on the final day with just six wickets in hand, seemed destined for defeat. Few anticipated what followed: a nerve-wracking, spine-tingling final act that showcased the magic only Test cricket can deliver.

The Anatomy of a Miracle: England's Great Escape 

The fifth day of the Auckland Test unfolded like a classic novel—layered with tension, unexpected twists, and a climax that gripped until the very last page. England, aware of the near-impossible task ahead, abandoned any thoughts of victory and instead resolved to survive. But survival was no easy feat. New Zealand’s bowlers, relentless in their pursuit, chipped away at the English lineup, taking wickets at regular intervals. Trent Boult and Tim Southee exploited every inch of movement on offer, and the Kiwis grew increasingly confident that their first home series win over England since 1984 was within grasp.

Amid the turmoil, Matt Prior emerged as England’s unlikely saviour. His counter-attacking century—filled with fluent drives and cuts—was as much an act of defiance as it was of skill. Yet, even as Prior fought valiantly, wickets continued to tumble. When James Anderson departed with only 19 balls left in the day, England’s hopes seemed all but extinguished.  

Then came the most unlikely twist of all: Monty Panesar, the unlikeliest of heroes, stepped forward. Known more for his eccentricities than his batting prowess, Panesar produced a stubborn display of resistance that will be etched into Test cricket folklore. With Boult steaming in and fielders swarming around the bat, Panesar blocked, ducked, and survived. His final over—the last of the match—was a masterpiece in nerve control, as he fended off everything Boult threw at him. Against all odds, England clung on to a draw, denying New Zealand what seemed an inevitable victory.

The Forgotten Beauty of Test Cricket

The final day at Auckland was a reminder of Test cricket’s enduring charm. In a world increasingly drawn to the instant gratification of T20 cricket, Test matches offer a different kind of thrill—one that unfolds slowly, building tension over five days, where every session matters, and the drama is richer for the time it takes to develop. The twists and turns, the mental battles, the strategy, and the sheer unpredictability—these are things that only Test cricket can provide. 

And yet, this masterpiece went largely unnoticed. While the cricketing world was transfixed by the star-studded contests elsewhere, Auckland produced a Test match for the ages—proof that the sport’s most traditional format still has the power to captivate and inspire. It was not a story of big names or flashy moments but one of grit, endurance, and the romance of a hard-fought draw. This was cricket in its purest, most authentic form.

Victory in a Draw: England’s Gallant Effort

Though the Kiwis outplayed England throughout the series, the English team’s final-day resistance was a triumph in itself. Snatching a draw from the jaws of defeat is a rare and remarkable feat in Test cricket, and it showcased a different kind of victory—one where pride, perseverance, and patience mattered more than runs on the board. This was not about medals or trophies; it was about the spirit of competition, about the refusal to surrender even when defeat seemed certain.

It would have been easy for England to crumble under the pressure, to accept defeat and move on. But they didn’t. Matt Prior’s hundred, combined with Panesar’s dogged resistance, ensured that Test cricket’s flag continues to fly proudly. In the end, the draw was as thrilling as any victory, proving that Test cricket’s magic lies not just in results but in the journey—the battle between bat and ball, between patience and pressure.

A Lesson for the Future

The Auckland Test was a reminder to all who doubt the relevance of Test cricket in the modern era. While T20 cricket dazzles with its fireworks, it is the longer format that offers depth and nuance—the kind of drama that stays with you long after the last ball is bowled. For cricket lovers, this series has been a gift, a testament to the resilience of a format that many had prematurely declared obsolete.  

In a time when cricket often prioritizes spectacle over substance, Auckland provided a beacon of hope—a reminder that the soul of the game still resides in the quiet, intense drama of a Test match. For those who missed it, the lesson is clear: the beauty of Test cricket lies not just in victory or defeat but in the fight itself—in moments of brilliance, endurance, and the unlikeliest of heroes, like Monty Panesar, standing firm in the face of overwhelming odds.

The series between New Zealand and England may not have captured the world’s attention, but for those who witnessed it, it was an unforgettable chapter in cricketing history—a celebration of the format that continues to offer the sport’s finest stories. And for that, we owe a thank you to both England and New Zealand for reminding us why Test cricket is, and always will be the ultimate test.

  

Thank You

Faisal Caesar