Younis Khan: Pakistan’s Indomitable Warrior

Fourteen years ago, a 22-year-old from Mardan etched his name into cricket’s consciousness with a knock that spoke volumes of his grit and determination. Pakistan, reeling in the second innings of a Test against Sri Lanka at Rawalpindi, found itself teetering on the edge of defeat. It was then that Younis Khan emerged—not just as a batsman but as a force. In partnership with the mercurial Wasim Akram, he crafted a defiant maiden century, building a ninth-wicket stand that briefly resurrected Pakistan’s hopes. While the team ultimately succumbed in a tense finish, the young batsman’s resolute display had announced the arrival of a player whose career would be defined by resilience.  

The Early Struggles

Younis Khan’s journey to greatness was never a linear ascent. His early career was a mosaic of brilliance and inconsistency—glimpses of potential often extinguished before translating into meaningful contributions. Runs eluded him when most needed, and his place in the squad hung precariously. Yet, what Younis lacked in immediate results, he made up for with determination. Refusing to let fleeting failures define him, he toiled relentlessly, chiselling away at the edges of his game to craft a foundation that could not be shaken.  

The turning point came in 2005 during Pakistan’s tour of India. The Bengaluru Test was a moment of reckoning. Until then, Younis had struggled to make an impact on the series. But under the mentorship of coach Bob Woolmer, who saw beyond the numbers, Younis delivered a monumental double century. That innings wasn’t just a rescue act; it was an emphatic declaration of intent. From that point onward, Younis Khan began the transformation from a promising player into a stalwart of Pakistan cricket.  

A Legacy of Leadership and Resilience

Younis’s rise was emblematic of his character—a gradual yet unyielding journey toward permanence. Over the years, he became the fulcrum of Pakistan’s batting lineup, a player who thrived under pressure and delivered when others faltered. His resilience was most vividly on display during his captaincy tenure, particularly in leading Pakistan to victory in the 2009 ICC World Twenty20. His leadership in that tournament, calm yet commanding, showcased his ability to galvanize a team in turmoil.  

Yet, Younis’s contributions extended far beyond runs and victories. He was a player who embodied the ethos of Pakistani cricket—a blend of artistry and defiance, unpredictability and perseverance. Time and again, he shouldered the burden of a faltering lineup, becoming the glue that held the team together. His batting was not merely a showcase of technical prowess but a testament to his mental fortitude.  

A Troubled Relationship with the PCB

Despite his immense contributions, Younis Khan’s relationship with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was fraught with tension. The board’s treatment of Younis often bordered on disrespect, marked by a lack of recognition for his service. In 2009, he was unceremoniously stripped of the captaincy, a decision that left a sour taste among fans and pundits alike. Time and again, Younis found himself sidelined, with the PCB favouring short-term decisions over long-term vision.  

The nadir came ahead of the 2015 World Cup. Excluded from the ODI squad, Younis was informed with little ceremony and even less regard. Chief selector Moin Khan dismissed him as a failed “experiment,” signalling a focus on younger players. The decision not only sidelined a stalwart but also betrayed the board’s tendency to overlook contributions in favour of fleeting trends. Younis’s frustration boiled over in public comments, where he implored the PCB to honour its heroes lest future generations lose their motivation to play for Pakistan.  

The Fighter’s Rebuttal

  

True to his nature, Younis Khan responded not with words but with performances. The ongoing series against Australia became his platform for redemption. Through sheer skill and unyielding determination, Younis silenced his critics with performances that reaffirmed his standing as one of Pakistan’s finest batsmen.  

His ability to rise in the face of adversity reflects not just a cricketer’s resilience but a warrior’s spirit. A proud Pathan, Younis’s unwavering commitment to his country is as much a matter of identity as it is of passion. Even when wronged, his loyalty to Pakistan cricket never wavered.  

The Indelible Legacy

Younis Khan’s journey is a masterclass in perseverance. He is more than just a cricketer; he is a symbol of resilience, an emblem of pride, and an inspiration for generations. His batting was a symphony of skill and determination, a reminder that greatness is earned not through talent alone but through an unrelenting pursuit of excellence.  

For Pakistan cricket, Younis Khan is not merely a player to be celebrated; he is a legacy to be preserved. His career is a reminder to the PCB and fans alike that champions do not emerge in isolation—they are nurtured, supported, and respected. To fail in honouring such a legacy is to undermine the very spirit of the game.  

In the annals of cricket, Younis Khan will remain a towering figure, a player whose name is synonymous with resilience. For Pakistan, he is not just a batsman or a captain but a mirror reflecting the team’s greatest qualities: unyielding determination, boundless talent, and an unshakeable will to rise, no matter how steep the fall.  

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar 

Rise and Shine Pakistan: The Underdogs’ Resurgence in Dubai

Cricket, like life, often revels in its unpredictability, and no team embodies this enigma quite like Pakistan. On the cusp of their 2014 Test series against Australia in Dubai, Pakistan seemed a team adrift. The suspension of their talismanic off-spinner Saeed Ajmal, coupled with dismal performances in recent outings, had left their morale in tatters. Australia, riding high on dominance in the shorter formats, appeared poised for another triumph. Yet, Pakistan’s penchant for defying expectations turned a foregone conclusion into a narrative of grit, resurgence, and unheralded heroes.  

The Enigma of Pakistan Cricket

Pakistan cricket thrives on paradoxes. For every match where they soar as "cornered tigers," there's another where they crumble like "cornered chickens." There exists no standard formula, no predictable rhythm. They are a team perpetually perched on the precipice of brilliance and chaos. Against Australia, with an inexperienced bowling lineup and a captain often critiqued for his defensive strategies, Pakistan seemed unlikely contenders. But, as history shows, their most extraordinary moments often emerge from crisis.  

The Bowling Gambit: The Rise of Yasir Shah and Zulfiqar Babar

With Ajmal missing, Pakistan’s bowling attack seemed woefully under-resourced. Enter Yasir Shah, a debutant leg-spinner, and Zulfiqar Babar, a journeyman left-arm spinner playing just his second Test. Both were considered stopgap solutions rather than match-winners. Yet, under Dubai’s sun, they metamorphosed into virtuosos of spin.  

The Australian batting lineup, a formidable assembly of experience and flair, was caught in a stranglehold of guile and precision. Zulfiqar’s crafty angles and Yasir’s ripping leg breaks dismantled the Aussies’ vaunted reputation. It wasn’t brute force but a symphony of subtle variations that subdued the visitors. Their combined effort not only filled the void left by Ajmal but elevated Pakistan’s bowling to a level of artistry rarely seen.  

The Captain's Transformation: Misbah's Moment 

Critics had long questioned Misbah-ul-Haq’s leadership, accusing him of passivity. But in Dubai, a different Misbah emerged—proactive, aggressive, and astute. His field placements, his willingness to attack, and his faith in his young bowlers turned the tide. It was as though the pressure of leading a team in crisis had liberated him, transforming his approach into one of boldness rather than caution.  

Australia’s Collapse: A Rare Meekness

Australia entered the match with the aura of invincibility, but the Dubai Test exposed their vulnerabilities. Their famed batting lineup, built on confidence and dominance, faltered against spin they couldn’t decipher. David Warner, Michael Clarke, and Steve Smith—all usual pillars of resilience—succumbed to the spin web spun by Zulfiqar and Yasir.  

What was most striking wasn’t just the fall of wickets but the manner of their capitulation. Australia’s response lacked the adaptability they’re known for, and their famed mental toughness wilted in the Dubai heat.  

The Underdogs’ Triumph

Pakistan’s victory in Dubai was more than just a win; it was a statement. This wasn’t merely about overcoming Australia but about rediscovering a collective spirit that had seemed lost. The Ajmal-less bowling attack that was presumed vulnerable became a weapon. The batting, led by resourceful performances, provided the cushion needed. And Misbah, the often-maligned leader, silenced his detractors with his tactical acumen.  

Resilience in Crisis: Pakistan's Eternal Story

Pakistan cricket has always thrived in the shadow of crises. From match-fixing scandals to internal discord, their journey is often punctuated by chaos. Yet, time and again, they bounce back, weaving tales of defiance and triumph. The Dubai Test was another chapter in this saga—a reminder that adversity often fuels their most remarkable feats.  

As the dust settled in Dubai, one thing became clear: Pakistan cricket may remain an enigma, but it is an enigma that possesses an uncanny ability to transform despair into glory.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

The Fall and Fractures of West Indies Cricket: A Bleak Tale of Egos and Mismanagement

 

For those who grew up watching cricket in the 1980s, the West Indies were nothing short of cricketing royalty. Their dominance was absolute, their aura unmatched. Every fan, regardless of allegiance, admired their artistry, athleticism, and swagger. They weren’t just a cricket team; they were a phenomenon that redefined the sport. Yet, the passage of time has turned this once-mighty empire into a crumbling shadow of its former self. The charisma, passion, and purpose that once defined West Indies cricket have been replaced by chaos, mismanagement, and infighting.  

Nowhere was this decline more apparent than in the 2014 dispute between the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB), the players, and the West Indies Players Association (WIPA), a conflict that dragged the region's cricket deeper into the abyss.  

From Glory to Gloom

Over the years, West Indies cricket has descended into mediocrity, plagued by a lack of structure and vision. The talent pipeline, once brimming with world-class cricketers, has dried up. The ethos of discipline, professionalism, and work ethic that fuels modern success is glaringly absent. The leadership vacuum at the WICB has only exacerbated these problems, with successive administrations showing a penchant for shortsightedness and internal power struggles rather than long-term planning.  

This negligence has trickled down to the players, many of whom now appear to lack the heart and hunger that once defined West Indies cricket. The result? A slow erosion of interest in cricket across the Caribbean and a team that now oscillates between flashes of brilliance and prolonged periods of mediocrity.  

The Catalyst for Crisis

The simmering tensions erupted in 2014 over a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between WICB President Dave Cameron and WIPA President Wavell Hinds. Under this agreement, players were required to accept a significant reduction in earnings to fund a new first-class franchise system. For a region already grappling with declining player morale and limited financial resources, this was a powder keg waiting to explode.  

Dwayne Bravo, the ODI captain at the time, and his teammates claimed they were never adequately consulted before the MoU was signed. The players argued that the new terms represented a dramatic pay cut—reportedly slashing Test, ODI, and T20 fees by 75% and reducing ICC earnings by nearly 100%. The sense of betrayal among players was palpable, with Bravo accusing Hinds of colluding with the WICB to undermine their livelihoods.  

Bravo proposed a temporary reinstatement of the old agreement until after the Indian tour, suggesting a renegotiation of terms in good faith. Cameron, however, dismissed this plea, insisting that the signed MoU was binding.  

The Spiral of Self-Destruction 

What followed was a tragic breakdown in communication and trust. The players, feeling cornered and disenfranchised, chose to abandon their tour of India mid-series—a decision that sent shockwaves through the cricketing world. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), cricket’s financial powerhouse, responded with fury, suspending all bilateral ties with West Indies and threatening legal action.  

The ramifications were catastrophic. India, the most lucrative opponent for any cricket board, represents a financial lifeline for the WICB. Without these tours, the already struggling board teetered on the brink of insolvency.  

Egos Over Cricket

The tragedy of this saga lies not just in its consequences but in its roots: a toxic cocktail of egos and self-interest. Wavell Hinds clung to his position, deflecting criticism with bureaucratic legalese. Dave Cameron dismissed opportunities for dialogue, sticking rigidly to the MoU. The players, meanwhile, prioritized their grievances over the broader implications for West Indies cricket.  

Caught in this web of stubbornness and mistrust, the game itself was forgotten. Cricket became secondary to power struggles, financial disputes, and personal vendettas.  

The Bigger Picture: A Bleak Future

The ICC, ever cautious, issued a diplomatic statement, expressing hope for an amicable resolution while distancing itself from direct involvement. Yet, the underlying warning was clear: failure to resolve the conflict could lead to the suspension of the WICB under ICC regulations. Such a suspension would not just bankrupt the board but also sever the West Indies’ ties with international cricket—a doomsday scenario for the region.  

But the implications go beyond the Caribbean. World cricket needs the West Indies. Their decline represents a loss of cultural and historical significance, an erosion of the game's diversity. Cricket without the West Indies is a diminished sport, stripped of the flair and unpredictability they once brought.  

The Way Forward: A Plea for Unity

This crisis is not just a failure of governance but a failure of collective responsibility. For West Indies cricket to rise again, all stakeholders must set aside their egos and commit to the game’s revival. The WICB must overhaul its administration, focusing on transparency, player engagement, and long-term development. Players must rediscover their sense of pride and purpose, recognizing the privilege of representing a storied cricketing tradition.  

The world of cricket waits with bated breath, hoping for a renaissance. While the West Indies may no longer be the undisputed kings of cricket, their spirit remains an essential part of the game’s soul. The question is: can they find it within themselves to rise from the ashes, or will they let this proud legacy fade into obscurity?

 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Crack Down on the Bowlers by ICC: The Perils of Regulation and the Struggle for Innovation

Bangladesh cricket is at a crossroads. The national team’s ongoing struggles, marked by repeated defeats on the field and constant controversies off it, have cast a long shadow over the game in the country. For passionate Bangladeshi cricket fans, there has been little to celebrate recently, as the cricketing landscape remains dominated by disappointment, scandal, and uncertainty. Amid this tumult, a new controversy has emerged that threatens to further unravel the sport: the ICC's renewed crackdown on suspected illegal bowling actions.

The Crackdown on Bowling Actions

The recent news that Bangladesh fast bowler Al-Amin Hossain has been reported for a suspected illegal bowling action has sent shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity. Hossain, a promising talent, is the latest in a growing list of bowlers flagged by the ICC for their actions. He becomes the sixth player to be reported, joining a list that includes his compatriot Sohag Gazi, and becoming the first fast bowler from Bangladesh to face such scrutiny. The timing of this development has been particularly unsettling for the Bangladesh cricket community, already reeling from the national team’s poor performances.

This issue is not just about one player; it represents a broader concern over the ICC's increasingly stringent stance on what constitutes a ‘legal’ bowling action. For the governing body of world cricket, the message is clear: the integrity of the game must be upheld, and any action that threatens the fairness and spirit of the game must be rooted out. The crackdown on illegal bowling actions, however, raises complex questions about fairness, innovation, and the evolution of the sport.

A Renewed War on ‘Illegal’ Actions

The ICC's focus on illegal bowling actions has intensified in recent years, with the governing body implementing new measures to ensure that bowlers’ actions are within the regulations. In June, during an ICC Cricket Committee meeting, the governing body expressed concerns over the effectiveness of the biomechanical lab at the University of Western Australia in Perth, which has long been the standard for testing bowling actions. As a result, the ICC has moved to accredit other biomechanics labs around the world to offer greater support to match officials and ensure that suspected illegal actions are accurately identified.

This renewed scrutiny has had its fair share of casualties. Bowlers like Sri Lanka’s Sachithra Senanayake, New Zealand’s Kane Williamson, and Pakistan’s Saeed Ajmal have all been banned or suspended after their actions were deemed illegal by the ICC. Ajmal's suspension in 2013, which declared his action illegal for all deliveries, shocked the cricket world and marked a turning point in the ICC’s approach to illegal actions.

While the ICC’s drive to uphold the integrity of the game is commendable, it raises serious concerns about the implications for bowlers, particularly those whose actions fall within a grey area. The focus on biomechanics, while scientifically rigorous, risks overlooking the nuances and complexities of bowling as an art form. The more rigid the rules become, the more constrained bowlers feel, particularly those who rely on subtle variations in their actions to deceive batsmen.

A Crisis of Confidence: Muttiah Muralitharan and the Legacy of Innovation

The ICC's growing scrutiny of bowling actions inevitably leads to questions about its approach to legendary bowlers whose actions were once considered to be within the legal parameters but are now coming under fresh examination. The case of Muttiah Muralitharan, one of the greatest bowlers in cricket history, is particularly pertinent. Muralitharan, whose action was deemed legal by the University of Western Australia’s biomechanics lab, is now caught in the crosshairs of a broader debate about what constitutes a 'legal' action.

If the ICC is now dissatisfied with the results of the biomechanics lab in Perth, should it re-evaluate the validity of bowlers who have passed through it, including Muralitharan? This hypothetical scenario is not as far-fetched as it might seem, especially considering the evolving nature of biomechanics and the increasing scrutiny placed on bowling actions in the modern game. The very idea of reopening Muralitharan's case sends a chilling message to current and future bowlers: innovation, no matter how brilliant or effective, is under constant threat.

The Stifling of Innovation

At the heart of the debate over illegal bowling actions lies a deeper issue: the growing stifling of bowling innovation. Over the years, the ICC's increasing regulation of bowling actions has created an environment where bowlers are afraid to experiment. What was once celebrated as the art of deception—the subtle variations in pace, spin, and angle that make bowling such a fascinating and complex discipline—has now become a minefield of legal boundaries.

The fear of having a unique delivery reported as illegal has led to many bowlers, particularly spinners, retreating into more orthodox, and sometimes less effective, methods. The doosra, a delivery popularized by the likes of Saeed Ajmal and Muttiah Muralitharan, has become a symbol of the battle between innovation and regulation. It is now regarded with suspicion, despite being one of the most ingenious deliveries in the game. Similarly, reverse swing bowling, once a hallmark of fast bowling, is now viewed with wariness, as bowlers fear being branded as violators of the laws of cricket.

This growing fear of innovation threatens the very essence of the game. Cricket, like all sports, evolves through the ingenuity of its players. Just as batsmen are encouraged to experiment with new shots, such as the reverse sweep or switch-hit, bowlers too should have the freedom to innovate within the rules. If we accept that a batsman can change the way the game is played with a new stroke, why should a bowler be penalized for developing a new delivery?

The Need for Balance

As the ICC continues its battle against illegal actions, there is a pressing need for a more balanced approach—one that recognizes the importance of both fairness and innovation. There is no doubt that the integrity of the game must be protected, but this should not come at the cost of stifling the creative spirit that has made cricket such a dynamic and evolving sport.

The ICC must strike a delicate balance, allowing bowlers to push the boundaries of their craft while ensuring that they remain within the parameters of fairness. This may mean revisiting some of the existing rules and guidelines surrounding bowling actions to ensure they reflect the changing nature of the game and the challenges faced by bowlers in a modern cricketing landscape. Just as the laws of batting have evolved over time to accommodate innovation, so too should the laws governing bowling.

Ultimately, cricket must remain a place where both batsmen and bowlers can express their skills and creativity without fear of being unfairly punished. The ICC's role is not only to regulate but also to foster the growth and evolution of the game. By doing so, it can ensure that the game remains both fair and vibrant and that the innovations of today’s bowlers are not tragically lost to the past.

In the end, cricket’s future lies in finding harmony between the strictures of fairness and the freedom of creativity. The question remains: will the ICC rise to the challenge? Or will it continue down a path that risks suffocating the very innovations that have made the game what it is today?

 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Aftab Ahmed: The Tragic Decline of a Bright Talent

 Aftab Ahmed, once heralded as one of the most exciting talents to emerge from Bangladesh, remains a poignant example of what might have been. His cricketing journey was marked by flashes of brilliance, yet it ended far too soon, leaving behind a sense of lost promise and unrealized potential. The early excitement surrounding his career slowly faded into obscurity, a reminder of the fragility of even the brightest careers in the sport.

The Promise of a Chittagong Prodigy

Aftab’s story began in Chittagong, where, influenced by his father, he first embraced the game that would later define his life. His natural talent, especially his aggressive stroke play, quickly caught the eye of the national selectors. During the 2002 Under-19 World Cup, his fearless approach to batting stood out, garnering significant attention. His confidence and aggression were qualities that made him a compelling prospect for the future of Bangladeshi cricket.

In 2003, Aftab was included in the Bangladesh Test squad for a series against England, despite a somewhat underwhelming performance in the warm-up matches. His selection was met with scepticism, especially from local media, and it took another year before he made his debut. The road to recognition for Aftab, however, was only just beginning, and what followed would set the stage for a career that promised much but ultimately delivered far less than expected.

A Breakout Moment: The Rise of an All-Rounder

Aftab’s breakthrough came dramatically. During just his third One-Day International (ODI) at the Bangabandhu National Stadium in Dhaka, Bangladesh was defending a modest total of 146 runs against New Zealand. On paper, it appeared to be a simple chase for the Kiwis. However, Aftab's medium-paced bowling became the turning point. With a spell of inspired bowling, he single-handedly rattled New Zealand’s batting order, taking five wickets as the Kiwis collapsed from 76 for 1 to 133 for 7. Each of his dismissals was met with a smile—a mix of youthful exuberance and disbelief— as a previously silent crowd erupted in support. 

Although he had been selected as a batsman, Aftab’s performance with the ball that day marked the beginning of his evolution into an all-rounder. His role as a bowler became a fixture in most of his appearances, and it was clear that he could contribute with both bat and ball, a rare and valuable asset in the team. That day, he demonstrated a level of skill that went beyond mere technical ability—it was his innate sense of belief and his ability to perform under pressure that made him stand out.

The Batting Talent: A Celebration of Aggression

Aftab’s true calling, however, was with the bat. As a stroke-maker, he was a force to be reckoned with. His attacking style of play made him a crowd favourite, and he quickly became known for bulldozing bowlers with an array of powerful shots. He was happiest when driving the ball on the front foot, but could shift his balance with ease to pull or hook the ball when necessary. His cuts and lofted drives were executed with power and precision, and he was capable of improvising in ways that made his batting both exhilarating and unpredictable.

Yet, Aftab was not merely a reckless hitter. When the situation demanded, he demonstrated a maturity beyond his years, tempering his natural aggression and playing the role of a sheet anchor. He was involved in several key partnerships during his limited-overs career, anchoring the innings when required, and proving that he could adapt his game to the needs of the team. His versatility as a batsman—able to counter both spin and pace with equal flair—made him a significant asset for Bangladesh. Aftab’s batting was not just a display of technical ability; it was a celebration of the spirit of cricket itself—bold, fearless, and free-spirited.

The Downfall: A Career Cut Short

The turning point in Aftab’s career came in 2008, when, along with several national team players, he joined the rebel Indian Cricket League (ICL). The move resulted in a ten-year ban from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Though Aftab eventually quit the ICL and expressed his willingness to return to national duty, his career never regained its former momentum. By the time he made his comeback, his confidence had been severely shaken, and his performance, once so promising, had begun to falter. He played his last match for Bangladesh in 2010, and after that, he slowly faded from the national consciousness, his name relegated to the annals of what could have been.

In recent years, Aftab announced his retirement from all forms of the game at the age of 29. The news was met with a sense of inevitability, as though his career had long been in decline. It is difficult to reconcile the premature end of such a promising career—one that had shown so much potential but failed to fulfil it. Aftab's retirement at such a young age serves as a tragic reminder of how fleeting success can be, and how quickly a career can be derailed by decisions both on and off the field.

The Bigger Picture: A Legacy of Unfulfilled Potential

Aftab Ahmed’s career is not an isolated case. Over the years, many promising talents have emerged from Bangladesh cricket, only to see their potential go unrealized. The question remains: why do such promising careers flame out prematurely? While there is no simple answer, a combination of factors—such as inconsistent management, lack of nurturing, and off-field distractions—have certainly played a role in thwarting the careers of many young cricketers.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) must take a long, hard look at how it handles emerging talent. Instead of allowing raw potential to wither away due to a lack of proper development programs or strategic planning, the BCB must act as a responsible guardian of the country's cricketing future. The system should not just focus on producing players, but on ensuring that those players have the right environment to thrive and reach their full potential.

For Aftab, the story has already been written. His bright start, his early promise, and his sudden fall from grace will remain a tragic chapter in the history of Bangladesh cricket. But for the next generation of players, there is still hope. The BCB, the coaches, and the cricketing fraternity must learn from past mistakes and work together to create a system that nurtures and sustains talent, rather than letting it slip through their fingers.

As we look back on Aftab Ahmed’s career, we are reminded that the game is not just about the players who make it to the top—it is also about those who, for various reasons, never do. And in that, there is a great deal to learn. Aftab's story, though sad, is not the end of the road for Bangladeshi cricket. It should serve as a call to action—one that demands more care, more foresight, and more responsibility in preserving the country's cricketing future.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar