The Walsh Chapter: Bangladesh’s Quest for a New Pace Identity

The passing of Heath Streak left a void not just in Bangladesh’s coaching setup but also in the psyche of a pace attack he had meticulously crafted. Under his tutelage, bowlers like Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Rubel Hossain, and Al-Amin Hossain transformed from raw talents into effective weapons, unsettling opposition line-ups with their newfound guile and discipline. Replacing a coach of Streak’s stature was never going to be a simple task. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) had to find someone capable of continuing the progress while imprinting his own philosophy on the team’s future.

After months of speculation and flirtations with names like Allan Donald, Shane Bond, and Chaminda Vaas, the appointment of Courtney Walsh as Bangladesh’s new bowling coach ahead of the 2019 ICC World Cup was both surprising and symbolic. The transition from player to coach is a delicate one, and while Walsh had not yet helmed an international side, his 17-year career—marked by grit, mastery, and a staggering 519 Test wickets—offered a different, perhaps more profound, kind of promise.

This choice signals more than just a managerial shift; it is a testament to the BCB’s belief that Walsh’s experience transcends technical coaching and extends into the realm of mentorship, inspiration, and transformation.

Legacy Meets Challenge: Walsh’s Unique Advantage

Despite some skepticism from local critics over Walsh’s lack of formal international coaching experience, it is shortsighted to question the potential impact of a man who is widely regarded as one of the finest fast bowlers in cricket history. Walsh was a craftsman who thrived under adversity, especially on subcontinental wickets that traditionally stifled fast bowlers. He was adept at extracting bounce and movement from lifeless tracks, something Bangladesh’s pacers must learn if they are to succeed on home soil. His mere presence promises to instill both technical prowess and mental resilience—qualities that Bangladesh’s pace attack needs to thrive, especially in Test cricket.

Bangladesh has historically leaned heavily on its spinners, often relegating its fast bowlers to the role of side characters. Under Walsh, there lies the potential to rewrite this narrative. His appointment isn’t just about refining skills but about altering mindsets—encouraging a shift towards valuing pace bowling as a legitimate weapon in the Tigers’ arsenal.

The Art of Survival: Fitness, Longevity, and Spirit

One of the greatest gifts Walsh brings is his deep understanding of fitness and longevity. Few fast bowlers have endured the physical toll of international cricket as gracefully as he did. Even in the twilight of his career, Walsh bowled long, tireless spells, often carrying the burden of a weak West Indian attack on his shoulders. This capacity to push through physical discomfort and maintain peak performance will be invaluable to Bangladesh’s young pacers.

In a sport where fitness often determines success, Walsh’s guidance can inspire the likes of Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman to develop the endurance required for multi-day cricket. His insights into maintaining rhythm and focus under fatigue—something he perfected over a 132-Test career—may prove to be the missing link for Bangladesh’s bowlers as they navigate unforgiving conditions and long series.

Evolving Craft: Yorkers, Cross-Seam, and New Dimensions

Heath Streak laid the groundwork for Bangladesh’s pacers, but the development of key skills, such as the yorker, remained incomplete. Walsh’s arrival offers a chance to perfect this art. His knowledge of variations like the slower yorker, combined with Mustafizur’s natural flair for deception, could add a lethal edge to Bangladesh’s limited-overs strategy.

Moreover, Walsh’s expertise with the cross-seam delivery—a tool often deployed to generate unpredictable movement on unresponsive surfaces—can be a game-changer. If nurtured correctly, bowlers like Taskin and Rubel could integrate this technique into their repertoire, making them more versatile across formats.

Beyond Technique: Walsh’s Role as a Mentor and Friend

What sets Walsh apart isn’t just his technical brilliance but his ability to connect with young players. His time mentoring the West Indies Under-19 team and his role with Jamaica Tallawahs in the Caribbean Premier League reflect his ease in working with emerging talents. Walsh embodies the rare quality of being approachable and ego-free, a trait essential for fostering a collaborative team environment.

For Bangladesh’s pacers—some of whom are still navigating the psychological complexities of international cricket—Walsh’s leadership offers more than just tactical advice. He brings empathy, patience, and a wealth of personal experience, making him not just a coach but a guide who understands the emotional highs and lows of professional cricket.

Redefining Fast Bowling: A New Chapter for Bangladesh

The arrival of Walsh is an opportunity to redefine the role of pace in Bangladesh’s cricketing identity. His influence could inspire a new generation of fast bowlers to believe in their ability to dominate, even on spin-friendly tracks. Bangladesh’s pace attack, once a supporting act, has the potential to become a force of its own under Walsh’s guidance.

Former West Indies captain Clive Lloyd once said, “I don’t think you’ll find another Courtney Walsh around, and if I was a young fast bowler, I’d want to emulate him.” Sir Garfield Sobers echoed a similar sentiment, noting Walsh’s dedication to the West Indies cause and his ability to give his best in the most challenging circumstances. This is precisely the ethos Walsh can instill in Bangladesh’s young bowlers—a sense of pride, discipline, and perseverance.

From Streak to Walsh: A Continuum of Progress

Heath Streak elevated Bangladesh’s pace attack to new heights, setting a solid foundation. Now, with Walsh at the helm, the hope is not merely to sustain but to elevate. The transition from one great fast bowler to another carries with it the promise of continuity and evolution. Under Streak, Bangladesh’s bowlers learned to be effective; under Walsh, they have the chance to become exceptional.

This appointment is more than a coaching change—it is the start of a new era. With Walsh’s arrival, Bangladesh’s bowlers have an opportunity not only to enhance their technical skills but also to embrace the philosophy of fast bowling as an art form. His experience, wisdom, and passion could be the spark that propels Bangladesh’s pace attack to new heights, ensuring that their smiles on the field are backed by substance, strategy, and success.

In a sport where pace bowling is often described as the most demanding discipline, the Tigers are now in the hands of a master. Under Walsh, they stand poised to craft a narrative where pace is not just an accessory but a defining characteristic of Bangladesh cricket’s future.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Brazil's New Dawn: Tite's Tactical Triumph in Quito

For over a decade, Brazil's travels in World Cup qualifiers have been marred by disappointment. Not since their resounding 3-1 victory over Argentina in Rosario in 2009, when Diego Maradona patrolled the sidelines and Lionel Messi looked on helplessly, had the Selecao tasted an away victory. A team once synonymous with dominance and flair had become inconsistent, particularly under the rigid and uninspiring second tenure of Carlos Dunga. 

But hope arrived with Tite. His appointment heralded not just a new leader but a new philosophy. And in Quito, against an Ecuadorian side unbeaten at home in 11 qualifiers since 2009, Tite faced his baptism by fire. The challenges were daunting: a hostile crowd, high altitude, and the ghosts of 33 years without a win in Ecuador. Yet, as the match unfolded, it became evident that Brazil under Tite was evolving into a team of steel and silk. 

A Masterclass in Adaptation 

The thin air of Quito has suffocated many visiting teams, draining their energy and disrupting their rhythm. Yet, Tite's Brazil displayed remarkable endurance and discipline. Selecao’s approach was measured, prioritizing compactness and control over reckless aggression. The traditional *Jogo Bonito*—Brazil’s signature aesthetic style—was not entirely absent but was interwoven with pragmatism. 

Brazil set the tone early. Within five minutes, Neymar threaded a delightful pass to Gabriel Jesus, whose electric pace left Ecuador's defence floundering. Though Jesus failed to convert, the warning signs were clear. Brazil was no longer a team merely reacting to their environment; they were dictating the tempo, altitude be damned. 

The first half was a cagey affair, with Ecuador holding their defensive lines and limiting Brazil's space. But Tite’s side remained undeterred, their patience and cohesion foreshadowing a breakthrough. 

Second-Half Supremacy 

The second half saw Brazil shift gears. Tactical precision replaced hesitation, and individuals stepped up to elevate the collective. Key among them was Marquinhos, who marshalled the defence with aerial dominance and impeccable timing. In front of him, Casemiro was a bulwark, anchoring the midfield with intelligence and grit in the lone defensive role of Tite’s 4-1-4-1 system. 

Renato Augusto was the midfield metronome, orchestrating play and providing the stability Brazil needed to unleash their attacking threats. Neymar, operating with fluidity, often dropped deep to dictate play, combining vision with bursts of creativity. He was no longer just a left winger or a forward; he was a playmaker, a leader, and a fulcrum. 

The deadlock was broken in the 72nd minute when Neymar calmly converted a penalty, displaying his composure in the most pressurized moments. From that point, the stage belonged to Gabriel Jesus, the young prodigy who was making his international debut. 

The Rise of Gabriel Jesus 

Few players announce their arrival on the international stage as emphatically as Gabriel Jesus did that night. His first goal, a clever flick inside the box, highlighted his instincts and technical brilliance. His second, a thunderous shot from the edge of the area, was a testament to his audacity and skill. 

In one match, Jesus achieved what legends like Pelé, Ronaldo, and Romário could not: scoring twice on his senior debut. His performance was not just a glimpse of potential; it was a statement of intent. At just 19 years old, he symbolized a new generation of Brazilian talent ready to reclaim the country’s footballing glory. 

Tite’s Tactical Brilliance 

What set this victory apart was Tite’s strategic approach. He balanced Brazil's natural flair with defensive solidity, ensuring the team didn’t leave themselves vulnerable to Ecuador's counterattacks. The 4-1-4-1 formation allowed Brazil to dominate the midfield while maintaining defensive cover, a marked departure from the disjointed performances of the past. 

Under Tite, Brazil looked like a team with purpose and identity—a side capable of adapting to adversity without losing its essence. 

A New Era of Promise 

This win in Quito was more than three points; it was a symbolic triumph. Brazil’s away drought in World Cup qualifiers was over, and with it, the lingering doubts about their ability to succeed in challenging conditions. 

Tite’s Brazil is a team in transition, blending the artistry of Jogo Bonito with the pragmatism required in modern football. The foundation is solid, the philosophy clear, and the personnel—led by Neymar and Gabriel Jesus—are poised to deliver. 

As Brazil marches forward in the qualifiers, one thing is certain: the Selecao are no longer a team haunted by inconsistency. Under Tite, they are transforming into world-beaters once more, ready to conquer both their adversaries and the ghosts of the past.  

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Terror and Triumph: Why England Must Tour Bangladesh in 2016

July 1, 2016—a date etched in sorrow for Bangladesh. On the holiest night of Ramadan, the serenity of Dhaka was shattered by an unprecedented act of terror. Five assailants stormed the Holey Artisan Bakery in Gulshan, one of the city's most secure and affluent areas, taking hostages and unleashing violence that left the nation grief-stricken. In the aftermath of "Operation Thunderbolt," the standoff ended, but the scars it left on Bangladesh’s collective psyche lingered. 

Just days later, as Bangladesh gathered for Eid prayers at Sholakia, another bomb blast deepened the wounds of an already mourning nation. These events sent shockwaves throughout the world, with repercussions extending beyond immediate security concerns. For Bangladesh, a country with burgeoning ambitions in sports and tourism, the attacks threatened not only safety but also economic progress and national pride. 

A Nation on Edge 

The ripple effects of terrorism were immediate. Foreign investors hesitated, international tourists reconsidered their plans, and Bangladesh's growing reputation as a cricketing destination came under scrutiny. Only a year earlier, Australia had postponed their tour of Bangladesh, citing security concerns after the fatal shooting of an Italian charity worker in Dhaka. The Tigers, brimming with form and optimism, had looked forward to testing themselves against a historically strong side, but the cancellation left them without Test cricket for nearly a year. 

Now, England’s planned 2016 tour hung in the balance. A security delegation from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) visited Dhaka, Chittagong, and Fatullah, inspecting venues, accommodations, and protocols. Despite reassurances from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and government, uncertainty lingered. Would the shadow of terrorism thwart the hopes of millions of Bangladeshi fans once more? 

Sport in the Face of Adversity 

Terrorism is not unique to Bangladesh. France hosted the UEFA Euro 2016 tournament just months after a series of devastating attacks in Paris. In 2008, England toured India despite the Mumbai terrorist attacks. Why, then, should Bangladesh be treated differently? 

As Mashrafe Mortaza, Bangladesh’s inspirational captain, poignantly remarked: “This kind of attack is happening all over the world. There were attacks in France, and still, the Euro was held there. I think it depends on ECB-BCB, what is going on between them. But I think they should come.”

Mashrafe’s words underscore a truth often overlooked: terrorism seeks to sow fear and disrupt life. Allowing such acts to dictate the course of international cricket would hand victory to those who seek to spread chaos. 

Bangladesh: Rising Above Adversity 

Bangladesh is no stranger to resilience. In recent years, the nation has hosted major international tournaments, including the ICC World T20 and the Asia Cup, with flawless security arrangements. These events showcased the country’s ability to ensure the safety of players and fans alike, dispelling doubts about its readiness to host high-stakes games. 

The government’s response to the Gulshan and Sholakia incidents has been decisive. Security measures have been bolstered across the nation, and life in Bangladesh continues with characteristic determination. Foreign investors remain engaged, and tourists, drawn by the country’s natural beauty and cultural richness, continue to visit. 

Cricket, the heartbeat of Bangladesh, has always been a unifying force. The sport transcends divisions and brings people together in ways few other things can. For a country like Bangladesh, where cricket is woven into the fabric of national identity, the game holds an even deeper significance. 

Why England Must Tour 

The stakes of the England tour extend beyond the boundary ropes. For Bangladesh, hosting England would signal a triumph over fear and an affirmation of its place on the global cricketing stage. For England, the tour represents an opportunity to honor the resilience of a nation and contribute to the unifying power of sport. 

Bangladesh is no longer the underdog that once struggled against cricket’s elite. The Tigers have roared onto the world stage, defeating giants like India, South Africa, and Pakistan in recent years. England would face a fiercely competitive side eager to prove its mettle in a bilateral series. 

The tour would also serve as a reminder of cricket’s unique ability to inspire and unite. Where politics often falters, sport succeeds, fostering connections and breaking barriers. In a world plagued by division, cricket can be a force for peace, demonstrating that life—and the game—goes on, even in the face of adversity. 

 A Defiant Answer to Terrorism 

If England tours Bangladesh, it would be a statement of solidarity and defiance against terrorism. It would signal that the world will not cower but instead stand united against those who seek to disrupt peace. The sight of cricket flourishing in Dhaka and Chittagong would not only uplift Bangladeshi spirits but also reinforce the sport’s role as a symbol of hope and resilience. 

As Mashrafe aptly put it, “The sport should continue.” For Bangladesh, for cricket, and for the world, England’s tour would be more than a series of matches—it would be a victory for the human spirit.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Slow Decline of Test Cricket: Weather Woes and T20’s Growing Influence

The recent scheduling of a Test series in the West Indies during July and August, the height of the Caribbean’s rainy season, was puzzling at best and irresponsible at worst. For someone like me, who grew up enjoying the Calypso Carnival of cricket between March and April, it felt like an unfortunate disruption of tradition. It wasn’t long before the obvious culprit emerged—scheduling priorities dictated by the Indian Premier League (IPL). The outcome was predictable: Test cricket was marred by rain interruptions, poor facilities, and a general sense of neglect.  

Rain saved the West Indies in one Test, while on another occasion, it washed away four days of play. But it wasn’t just the weather that was to blame—the poorly maintained Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad played its part in the debacle. The sight of a sunlit outfield remaining unplayable due to inadequate drainage and outdated infrastructure was disgraceful. That such a historic venue, once synonymous with legendary moments, could fail to deliver even a full day’s play due to logistical issues was both ironic and tragic.  

Misplaced Priorities: T20 Over Test Cricket

This raises a troubling question: where does the responsibility lie? The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) must account for the decay in Test cricket infrastructure. The success of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) seems to be where their attention—and finances—are directed. With the CPL thriving as a commercial venture, the focus on nurturing and sustaining Test cricket appears to have diminished.  

Unfortunately, this shift reflects a broader malaise in cricket. Test cricket, with its deep-rooted traditions and strategic depth, has been slowly marginalized by the demands of Twenty20 leagues, which emphasize quick entertainment and revenue generation. The WICB’s apparent indifference to the plight of Test cricket in the region signals the erosion of a legacy that once commanded global respect.  

The greatest casualty of this neglect is not just West Indies cricket but the cricketing world at large. The slow decline of one of Test cricket’s most storied nations—whose fast bowlers once terrorized batsmen and whose batsmen were the epitome of flair—is a painful spectacle.  

Hurricane Season and the Folly of Scheduling

A closer look at the Caribbean weather patterns reveals the folly of hosting Test matches during July and August. According to regional weather data, July marks the beginning of the hurricane season, bringing heavy rains and storms to several parts of the Caribbean, including the Bahamas, Barbados, and St. Lucia. The chance of rain increases dramatically in August, making it the least favourable month for outdoor sports. A travel guide humorously described August as “Ugh,” reflecting its poor conditions for tourism—and by extension, cricket.  

Given this, the decision to stage an international Test series during these months was inexplicable. The predictable rain disruptions didn’t just frustrate fans but also undermined the credibility of West Indies cricket. Such poor planning reveals how the cricketing calendar is now dictated more by the IPL and other T20 leagues than by common sense. Had the Test series been scheduled during the traditional March-April window, the outcomes might have been very different.  

A Broader Problem: T20 Leagues and Test Cricket’s Marginalization

The story of Test cricket’s decline in the West Indies is not unique. Around the world, the growing influence of T20 leagues is reshaping the sport’s priorities. The balance between commercial interests and preserving the sport’s rich traditions is tipping precariously in favour of quick returns.  

Even elite cricketing nations like South Africa are not immune to this trend. A recent Test series in Durban revealed how far Test cricket has fallen in some quarters. Rain once again proved to be the villain, but what shocked fans was the state of the drainage facilities at Kingsmead, Durban’s premier cricket venue. Poor infrastructure meant that days of play were lost, even after the rain stopped—an embarrassment for a country with South Africa’s cricketing pedigree.  

For a team that has been among Test cricket’s elite, South Africa’s apparent indifference to maintaining world-class facilities signals a shift in priorities. Has South African cricket, too, decided to follow the West Indies’ path, placing more emphasis on T20 leagues at the expense of Test cricket? The worry is that, like the West Indies, they might soon find themselves reduced to a T20 powerhouse with little to offer in the longer formats.  

A Cry for Change: Restoring Balance

Test cricket, despite its slower pace and longer format, remains the soul of the sport. It demands skill, patience, and resilience—qualities that T20 cricket, with its emphasis on instant gratification, cannot replicate. While T20 leagues generate significant revenue, they should not come at the cost of Test cricket. If cricketing boards continue to prioritize commercial leagues over Test matches, the sport risks losing its identity.  

West Indies cricket offers a cautionary tale. Once the dominant force in world cricket, the team now struggles to compete consistently at the highest level, particularly in Tests. The erosion of cricket infrastructure, coupled with an overreliance on T20 leagues, has led to a slow but steady decline. South Africa risks following a similar trajectory unless urgent measures are taken to restore Test cricket to its rightful place.  

The administrators of world cricket must recognize that the game’s long-term health depends on the survival of all formats. Test cricket cannot thrive on tradition alone—it needs investment, better scheduling, and genuine commitment from boards and players alike. The allure of T20 leagues is undeniable, but cricket’s heritage is far too valuable to be sacrificed at the altar of short-term profits.  

A Call to Action

The rain-ruined series in the West Indies was more than just a scheduling mishap—it was a symptom of a deeper problem plaguing world cricket. The marginalization of Test cricket by T20 leagues is a troubling trend, and the failure of cricket boards to balance tradition with commerce is becoming increasingly apparent.  

If cricket is to preserve its soul, boards like the WICB and Cricket South Africa must rethink their priorities. Test cricket needs nurturing, not neglect. Facilities must improve, scheduling must be thoughtful, and the love for the longer format must be rekindled. Above all, the cricketing world must remember that Test cricket is not just a format—it is the game’s heartbeat. And without it, cricket risks losing what makes it truly great.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

A New Dawn for Brazil: The Revival of Jogo Bonito

The Samba Boys kept me awake until dawn. As the clock struck 6:00 a.m., tears streamed down my face—tears of joy, not sorrow. For a Brazilian football fan, it was a moment to treasure, a cleansing rain after years of frustration and despair. It felt as though the dark clouds that had loomed over Brazil’s footballing ethos had parted, allowing the radiance of hope to shine once more. Brazil, a team that transcends mere sport, has reminded the world why they are more than just a football team—they are an embodiment of artistry, freedom, and passion.

From Despair to Redemption

Not long ago, the Seleção found themselves in turmoil. A draw with Iraq during the Olympic group stage left fans disheartened, critics emboldened, and Neymar, the talismanic figure of the team, subjected to ruthless trolling. Questions surrounded the capabilities of coach Rogério Micale, with whispers of his unsuitability gaining momentum. Yet, amidst the growing cacophony of doubt, Micale displayed a rare trait: unwavering belief.

Rooted in the ethos of Brazilian football, Micale understood something fundamental about his team. Brazil’s style, deeply intertwined with its culture, is not one of rigidity or caution. It is a celebration of life, a symphony of creativity and daring, akin to a Canarinho (little bird) in flight. Where others might retreat into pragmatism under pressure, Micale leaned into Brazil’s strength—freedom and joy on the pitch.

In a bold move, he implemented a daring 4-2-4 formation, a system few would dare to employ under the threat of elimination. It was a gamble, yes, but one grounded in the conviction that Brazil’s best chance lay in embracing their identity. And in doing so, Micale’s team rediscovered their rhythm, rekindling the Jogo Bonito spirit that had captivated the footballing world for generations.

The Canarinhos Take Flight

The transformation was immediate and electrifying. No longer bound by fear, the young Brazilian players began to express themselves with the flair and creativity that had once defined their predecessors. Douglas Santos evoked memories of Junior’s elegance, while Zeca mirrored the dynamism of Carlos Alberto. Renato Augusto’s commanding presence in midfield conjured echoes of Didi and Gerson, while Walace provided a dependable Zito-like anchor. Up front, Gabriel Jesus buzzed like Vavá, Gabigol dazzled with Garrincha-esque audacity, and Luan’s adaptability harkened to the intelligence of Tostão.

At the heart of it all was Neymar, who emerged not only as a talisman but as a leader. His performance transcended the traditional confines of a forward. Dropping deep into midfield, Neymar orchestrated play with the vision and finesse of a maestro. Like Pelé and Maradona before him, he blurred the lines between goal-scorer and playmaker, his sublime passing and positional awareness underscoring his brilliance.

The Unjust Criticism of Neymar

Yet, Neymar’s brilliance was not universally celebrated. Critics and fans alike took every opportunity to tear him down, often driven by biases against his club or nationality. The harsh judgment he endured revealed more about the critics than the player himself. Neymar’s commitment to the team was unwavering, and his performances were a testament to his dedication. It is a cruel irony that a player of his caliber often finds himself at the mercy of those who fail to grasp the artistry of his game.

Micale, however, saw what many could not. He gave Neymar the freedom to lead, not through rigid tactics but by encouraging him to embrace the fluidity that defines Brazilian football. This freedom extended to the entire squad, allowing them to transform the tournament into a spectacle of joy and artistry.

A Victory Beyond Gold

Brazil’s triumph in the Olympic Games was more than just a gold medal; it was a symbolic victory for the future of Brazilian football. After the rigid and uninspired reign of Carlos Dunga, which many fans viewed as a betrayal of Brazil’s footballing heritage, Micale’s approach was a breath of fresh air. His team’s performance served as a reminder of what Brazil could be when allowed to play their natural game.

The doubters who question Brazil’s reliance on free-flowing football misunderstand the essence of the nation’s sporting identity. Brazil’s greatness lies in their ability to play with freedom, joy, and creativity—traits that reflect the soul of their people. Pragmatism may deliver short-term results, but it can never capture the hearts of fans or sustain the philosophy that makes Brazilian football a global treasure.

The Legacy of 2016

While an Olympic gold medal may not hold the same prestige as a FIFA World Cup, its significance in 2016 was profound. It marked a turning point, a moment when Brazil reclaimed their identity and reminded the world of their unique contribution to football. For this, the credit belongs to Micale, whose bold decisions and unyielding faith in Jogo Bonito reignited the flames of hope.

The world of football owes a debt of gratitude to Rogério Micale and the young men he led to glory. They didn’t just win a tournament—they revitalized a philosophy. The Canarinhos are soaring once again, and with them, the promise of a brighter, more beautiful game.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar