New Zealand’s Bangalore masterclass on Day 2: Seam, Bounce, and India’s Collapse

Beneath the overcast skies of Bangalore, a deceptive dry deck lay in wait, promising a battlefield for spinners. Yet, what unfolded was a masterclass in seam bowling. The initial read of the pitch proved to be a fatal misjudgment by India, as they opted to bat first, only to be undone by an unexpected storm of seam movement and bounce.

The first session revealed an anomaly—the median seam movement reached 0.87 degrees, a marked increase from the average 0.5 over the past three years. Adding to the challenge was a lively bounce, which made even defensive strokes treacherous. New Zealand’s pacers, led by Matt Henry and the rising star William O'Rourke, exploited these conditions with surgical precision, dismantling India for just 46 runs—their lowest total at home and the worst by any Asian team in familiar conditions.

Misreading the Pitch and Tactical Missteps

India’s modern batting philosophy emphasizes counterattacking when under pressure, aiming to disrupt the opposition's rhythm and force bowlers into a defensive mode. But this tactic, which has worked so well on familiar surfaces, backfired spectacularly. The batters played too early, lunging at deliveries instead of using soft hands or trusting their defense. The result? A staggering 75 false shots, exposing their misjudgment of both the pitch and the bowlers.

India had prepared for a spin-friendly contest but found themselves grappling with disciplined seam bowling instead. The combination of seam movement and extra bounce unsettled even their most experienced players, and their instinctive aggression only compounded the damage.

Matt Henry: A Renaissance in Test Cricket

At the heart of New Zealand’s assault was Matt Henry, a bowler whose Test career has flourished since 2021. Until then, Henry's returns were modest—31 wickets from 13 Tests at an average of 51.5. However, post-2021, his transformation has been remarkable: 63 wickets from just 12 matches at an average of 21.5. His resurgence reflects not only technical refinement but also an ability to read conditions better and bowl with intent.

Henry’s contributions with the bat have also become valuable, scoring 364 runs at an average of 26 and a strike rate of 83.5 during this phase. On this Bangalore morning, it was his spell that set the tone, leaving India reeling under relentless pressure.

William O'Rourke: A Debut in India to Remember

While Henry's resurgence was impressive, it was William O'Rourke's debut that stole the spotlight. At just 23, the towering 6'3" pacer etched his name into the record books by becoming the New Zealand debutant with the most Test wickets in a single match. His height enabled him to extract extra bounce from a good length, a weapon that proved lethal against India’s top order.

O’Rourke's dismissal of Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and KL Rahul was a statement—this was not just a promising debutant but a bowler with the skill and temperament to thrive on the biggest stage. His sharp lines, ability to exploit natural variations, and knack for maintaining pressure transformed a testing surface into a minefield for India’s batters.

The Momentum Shift: New Zealand on the Ascendancy

For India, this debacle at Bangalore will be remembered as a tactical and psychological misstep. Their inability to adapt to the changing dynamics of the pitch—trusting spin but facing seam—revealed vulnerabilities that New Zealand exploited ruthlessly.

On the other hand, New Zealand's seamers have given their team renewed belief. To bowl out one of the world’s strongest batting line-ups for 46 runs, in their own backyard, is an achievement that could galvanize their entire Test campaign. In cricket, momentum is an intangible force, and New Zealand’s bowlers now hold the reins of this match.

While a Test match is a long game, full of twists and reversals, New Zealand have drawn first blood with an emphatic statement. As the game unfolds, India must regroup and rediscover their rhythm. For now, however, New Zealand are riding a wave of confidence, with their pace attack turning what was supposed to be a trial of spin into a seam-bowling spectacle.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Brazil’s thrashing of Peru: A statement of intent

At the Mane Garrincha stadium in Brasília, Brazil delivered a 4-0 rout of Peru that was more than just a victory it was a bold declaration. With this win, the Seleção not only registered back-to-back triumphs in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers but also gained much-needed momentum after some uneven performances earlier in the campaign.

Though Brazil remains in fourth place with 16 points—level with Uruguay and trailing Argentina by six - this victory radiated promise. For a team seeking to restore its former glory, the emphatic display against Peru seemed like a step in the right direction, a night where ambition met execution. Meanwhile, Peru’s struggles deepen, their six points leaving them second to last, perilously close to elimination from the qualifying race.

 A Cautious Beginning 

The first half was a slow dance between two sides still figuring out their rhythm. Brazil controlled possession and crafted a handful of opportunities, but the spark was missing. Peru, hesitant yet organized, tried to keep their defence intact. The closest they came to disrupting the script was when Edison Flores found the net in the 11th minute, only for his effort to be rightfully ruled offside. It was a rare warning shot from the visitors, who otherwise posed no real threat—zero shots on target in the first half told their story.

Brazil, despite moments of lethargy, grew into the game. Raphinha rattled the crossbar in the 23rd minute, a precursor to what was to come. The breakthrough arrived in the 37th minute, courtesy of a penalty awarded after a handball by Carlos Zambrano. Raphinha stepped up with ice-cold composure to convert the spot-kick, and the floodgates began to creak open. 

 Brazil Finds Its Groove 

The second half was an entirely different affair. With the early jitters gone, Brazil rediscovered its swagger, turning the game into a one-sided spectacle. Speed and precision emerged on the wings, and their intent became clearer with every passing minute. Just eight minutes after the restart, Raphinha doubled his tally with another penalty, cementing his influence on the match.

Now, the Brazilian engine was purring. The match’s highlight came in the 70th minute when Andreas Pereira volleyed in a stunning strike, a goal that felt like poetry in motion—a perfect synthesis of control and flair. And before Peru could recover, Luiz Henrique struck again in the 73rd minute, delivering the final blow and sealing the 4-0 victory.

 A Timely Reminder

Brazil’s dominance in the second half was as much a mental shift as it was tactical. They attempted 13 shots in the last 45 minutes, nearly three times their first-half output. It wasn’t just the number of attempts - the renewed intensity, the sense that every pass and run carried purpose. The national team looked, at last, like it had broken free from the malaise that haunted its earlier performances in the qualifiers.

This win, however, is not merely a statistic or a morale booster. It’s a glimpse of what this squad could become when it plays without hesitation - when it believes in its own potential. There’s still a long road ahead, and Argentina’s lead remains daunting, but this performance whispered possibilities.

The Road Forward

Consistency will be the true measure of Brazil’s resurgence. They must carry this verve into every match to challenge Argentina and Uruguay at the top of the table. There is little room for complacency in the relentless world of South American qualifiers, where form ebbs and flows as unpredictably as the Amazon’s rivers.

For now, though, Brazil can savour the night - a night when they rediscovered not just their winning ways, but also a bit of their soul. Amid the turbulence of qualification campaigns, this victory against Peru is a reminder: that Brazil is still capable of brilliance when it chooses to believe.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The turbulent tenure of Chandika Hathurusingha: A Coach caught between transformation and turmoil

Chandika Hathurusingha’s return as head coach of Bangladesh cricket marked a complex chapter in the nation’s sporting history. His reappointment in 2023 was not merely a coaching change - it was a bold, albeit controversial, attempt to restore discipline and structure to a team oscillating between promise and inconsistency. Predictably, his second tenure became a battlefield of ambition, resistance, and volatility, encapsulating the larger tensions within Bangladesh cricket.

Hathurusingha's arrival was met with polarized reactions. While some saw his return as a necessary correction toward professionalism, others feared the rigidity of his methods. The sports media, often entangled with the interests of certain players and officials, quickly turned hostile. In some quarters, he was portrayed as an outsider disrupting the comfort of familiar hierarchies. Yet, undeterred by the noise, Hathurusingha remained committed to his coaching philosophy: an unyielding focus on tactical discipline and the nurturing of young talent.

Tactical Brilliance and Development of Talent

Under Hathurusingha’s guidance, Bangladesh witnessed some memorable performances, particularly in the Test format. The triumphs against New Zealand at home and a historic series win in Pakistan were not mere victories but statements of intent. These results hinted at a transformation - a team gradually learning to thrive in the rigours of red-ball cricket.

A hallmark of his coaching was the development of Bangladesh’s pace attack, mirroring his earlier tenure’s successes. Young bowlers flourished, reflecting his emphasis on strategic planning and mental resilience. Equally noteworthy was the emergence of Najmul Hossain as a captain—an achievement that underscored Hathurusingha’s knack for identifying and moulding leadership from within. His tenure was, in many ways, about future-proofing Bangladesh cricket, preparing it for challenges beyond the present.

Internal Frictions and Media Manipulations

However, success did not come without friction. Hathurusingha’s strict, structured style often collided with the autonomy some senior players had grown accustomed to. Behind the scenes, familiar power struggles resurfaced, with players and officials using media platforms to undermine his authority. The selection process became a flashpoint for disagreements, exposing rifts that went beyond cricketing strategies and into questions of influence and control.

The empowerment of key figures like Shakib Al Hasan - who simultaneously held political office - further complicated team dynamics. Balancing individual ambitions with collective goals became a task fraught with tension. At times, the team appeared caught in a tug-of-war between professionalism and personal agendas, a struggle that left its mark on performances during marquee tournaments such as the Asia Cup and the ICC World Cup. These competitions revealed the limits of Hathurusingha’s impact, as Bangladesh faltered on the biggest stages despite glimpses of brilliance in bilateral series.

The Duality of Success and Struggle

Hathurusingha’s tenure was a paradox—one of short-term success intertwined with deep-seated challenges. While his efforts brought moments of pride, they also exposed the structural fragilities of the team. His attempt to blend seasoned veterans with rising stars was a delicate balancing act that did not always yield the desired consistency. The volatility of Bangladesh cricket—both on and off the field - meant that even the best-laid plans were often derailed by distractions beyond his control.

A Legacy of Lessons, Not Regrets

In retrospect, Hathurusingha’s second stint in Bangladesh cricket was less about trophies and more about transitions. His methods may have seemed abrasive to some, but they reflected a vision that sought long-term growth, not quick fixes. The turbulence that accompanied his tenure underscored the challenges of leading a team where tradition and transformation frequently clash.

Whether or not Hathurusingha ever returns to Bangladesh, his impact will endure in the conversations he leaves behind. He pushed boundaries, reshaped perspectives, and made choices that forced both his supporters and critics to reconsider the trajectory of Bangladesh cricket. His tenure serves as a mirror for the board, the players, and the fans - raising essential questions about leadership, player-coach dynamics, and the team’s readiness to evolve.

Ultimately, Hathurusingha’s legacy will not be defined solely by wins and losses. It will be measured by the lessons learned in navigating ambition, friction, and transformation - lessons that, if heeded, could shape the future of Bangladesh cricket far beyond his departure. And in time, those who once opposed him may speak of him differently, not as a disruptor, but as a coach who dared to chart a new course in a stormy sea.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar 

Bold selection shake-up by Pakistan

In a surprising and decisive move, Pakistan's cricket hierarchy has opted to drop star players Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Naseem Shah from the remaining Test matches against England. This decision signals a significant shift in selection philosophy, one that challenges the notion that individual stardom guarantees a permanent spot in the Test lineup.

The message is clear: wearing the Pakistan Test jersey demands more than talent—it requires unwavering commitment, respect for the five-day grind, and alignment with the broader team vision. While this move may seem drastic, it reflects an underlying recognition that Test cricket requires not just brilliance but consistency, intent, and long-term investment from its players.

In the short term, this decision could result in further setbacks on the field. Pakistan, already trailing in the series, may still struggle to match England’s intensity. However, the significance of this shake-up extends beyond immediate results. It hints at a larger cultural shift - one where reputations are no longer immune to scrutiny, and selection is rooted in merit rather than name recognition.

If managed well, this new approach could reshape Pakistan’s cricketing fundamentals, emphasizing quality over sentiment. It also suggests a commitment to building a sustainable production chain of cricketers, where emerging talents are rewarded, and complacency is no longer tolerated. The long road ahead may be fraught with challenges, but a future where the Test side reflects Pakistan’s best - both in skill and in attitude- appears more attainable than ever.

In a sport often resistant to change, such bold decisions require conviction and a willingness to bear short-term pain for long-term gain. Only time will tell whether this gamble pays off, but it undeniably marks a step towards accountability in Pakistan’s cricketing structure—a reminder that the Test shirt must be earned, not inherited.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar 

Brazil win against Chile despite scratchy performance

If not for Luiz Henrique's crucial goal in the 88th minute, Friday’s sports headlines would almost certainly be dominated by Brazil's near-exclusion from the group of six South American teams poised to qualify directly for the World Cup. A draw in Chile would have plunged the Seleçao into an ignominious position, trailing even Bolivia and level on points with Venezuela, languishing in seventh—a spot that would force them into the playoffs. Such a scenario would be nothing short of a national embarrassment.

But Henrique’s 2-1 strike in Santiago was more than just a victory; it was a momentary reprieve for a team enduring its worst-ever start to a World Cup qualifying campaign. Despite their struggles, Brazil walked away not only with three critical points but also a fleeting respite from the storm of criticism swirling around them.

For the better part of two years, Brazil's performances have teetered on the edge of mediocrity. The footballing giant has lost its former fluency and spark, still searching for answers and coherence. There’s much left to rebuild and correct, but those tasks seem far more achievable when the team isn't labouring under the weight of public scrutiny.

Despite the victory, the match laid bare the familiar frustrations. Brazil played without the elegance once synonymous with its name, stumbling through the same tactical quagmires that plagued their Copa America run and prior qualifying rounds. And yet, within the struggles, there were glimmers of promise - faint, but discernible.

What cannot be dismissed is the team’s resilience. After conceding just 86 seconds into the game, Brazil managed to shake off the early shock, displaying an admirable resolve to claw their way back. Away from home, under the shadows of hostile Chilean stands, they wrestled control of the game, dominating possession with nearly 70% of the ball. Goalkeeper Ederson, in fact, had little to do throughout the match.

While offensively improved compared to their dismal displays against Ecuador and Paraguay in September, the team’s attack remains a work in progress. With Savinho anchored on the right and Rodrygo and Raphinha roaming the wings, the team relied heavily on the wide play, largely due to its struggles in the central buildup. The midfield, with André and Lucas Paqueta at its core, suffered from imprecision, and the gap between defence and attack yawned wide, a structural flaw in Dorival Junior’s evolving tactical setup. His formation, shifting between a 3-2-5 during possession and a 4-4-2 in defence, is still far from perfect.

On the bright side, the debuts of left-back Abner and forward Igor Jesus offered a sense of possibility. Abner showed initiative, stretching the Chilean defence with his wide passes, while Igor Jesus brought physicality upfront that Brazil’s other forwards, including the highly touted Endrick, have yet to demonstrate. Igor’s positioning and precise header levelled the match just before halftime, a fitting introduction for a player offering a different dimension to Brazil's attack.

It’s far too early to draw conclusions about these newcomers, but their promise is a breath of fresh air for a team in need of solutions in pivotal areas.

Yet, for every sign of progress, old wounds remain. Defensive lapses, typified by Danilo’s ineffectiveness both at the back and in attack, coupled with technical errors, continue to disrupt Brazil’s rhythm. These issues linger, nagging reminders of the work still ahead for Dorival Junior and his squad.

Without the victory, the mounting pressure could have easily turned Brazil’s rebuilding process into a battle for survival. Now, at least, they have room to breathe.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Shakib Al Hasan betrayed Bangladesh and doesn't deserve apology

Shakib Al Hasan, revered as one of the greatest cricketers in Bangladesh's history, stands at a crossroads of sport and politics, his recent support for Sheikh Hasina's government igniting a firestorm of debate. While his accomplishments on the cricket field are undeniable, his political endorsement raises critical questions about accountability, integrity, and the responsibilities of public figures in a democratic society.

In the arena of sport, athletes often serve as symbols of hope, resilience, and unity for their nations. They transcend boundaries and inspire millions. However, this pedestal comes with a weighty responsibility; it is not enough to merely excel in one’s craft. Public figures must navigate the complex terrain of morality, particularly when their voices carry the potential to influence societal norms and political landscapes.

By openly supporting Sheikh Hasina, a leader accused of authoritarianism, fascism and genocide during the Monsoon Revolution in Bangladesh, Shakib aligns himself with a regime that has systematically undermined the very democratic values that many in Bangladesh hold dear.

The Hasina administration has faced international scrutiny for its harsh crackdowns on dissent, arbitrary arrests of political opponents, and curtailment of press freedoms. In doing so, it has fostered an atmosphere of fear and repression, standing in stark contrast to the principles of democracy, justice, and human rights.

Shakib's decision to stand by such a government is not merely a personal choice; it is a political statement that resonates beyond the cricket field. It sends a message that the pursuit of personal gain or popularity can eclipse the obligation to advocate for justice and accountability. In this light, one must ponder the implications of his actions. Should talent and fame provide immunity from scrutiny when they are inextricably linked to a regime that oppresses its people? 

The answer, emphatically, is no.

Respect is not an entitlement; it must be earned and maintained. Shakib's association with an authoritarian regime casts a long shadow over his legacy. By choosing to support Hasina, he has diminished the respect he garnered through years of dedication to cricket and has risked alienating the very people who once idolized him. In a time when voices of dissent are crucial for the health of democracy, aligning with oppression is a grave misstep.

Furthermore, the ramifications of Shakib’s choices extend beyond the immediate context. They serve as a reflection of the broader societal struggle within Bangladesh - a struggle between the forces of democracy and those of authoritarianism. 

It forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about the moral responsibilities of those who wield influence. In a country where the fight for democratic rights is ongoing, the silence or complicity of public figures can significantly impact public perception and political discourse.

In conclusion, Shakib Al Hasan's support for Sheikh Hasina should not go unchallenged. As a prominent figure, he bears a responsibility to his people that transcend the boundaries of sport. 

Apologies and respect cannot be granted blindly; they must be contingent upon the values one upholds. 

Shakib's alignment with a regime that undermines democracy calls for critical reflection and accountability. In the end, true heroes do not merely excel in their fields; they stand firm against oppression, champion justice, and inspire future generations to do the same.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar 

Harry Brook creates history

The fourth day of the Multan Test will be remembered for two starkly contrasting narratives: Harry Brook’s rise to greatness and Pakistan’s steady unravelling. England’s fearless cricket, embodied in Brook’s remarkable innings, was met with a Pakistan team adrift, their captain Shan Masood smiling through the carnage like a figure lost in a tragicomedy. The field seemed a stage where Pakistan’s players resembled characters in a surreal, disjointed film, while Brook and Joe Root methodically dismantled what was left of Pakistan’s resolve.

Shan Masood’s leadership - or lack thereof - was glaringly evident. As the Pakistani captain, his body language was baffling, wandering across the field with a casual smile that felt entirely out of place. 

Comparisons to the Joker, with his unsettling grin masking deeper confusion, were apt. It wasn’t just that Masood’s team was losing; it was the apparent lack of direction that made the loss all the more painful. 

He seemed to exude an air of detachment as if the gravity of the situation hadn’t yet dawned on him. This is not the hallmark of a leader who commands respect or control over his team.

Babar Azam, a player of immense individual talent, looked more like a disoriented figure on this particular day. Labelled whimsically as the "Lady Gaga of Joker 2," Babar was a shadow of his usual self. His focus and commitment have raised questions, with a dropped catch at a critical juncture turning the tide further in England’s favour. That missed chance allowed Joe Root to escape on 186, and from there, the dominance only intensified.

Wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan, a man known for his grit, seemed to be mentally elsewhere, enduring the scorching heat behind the stumps. His usual sharpness was missing as the Pakistan bowling attack, spearheaded by the once-dominant Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah, faltered. 

The analogy of the two running in like schoolboys rather than the heirs of Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis could not have been more cutting. Shaheen’s failure to make the ball talk, combined with Naseem’s lack of penetration, exposed the hollowness in Pakistan’s once-formidable pace attack.

The rest of the team appeared to be mere costars in this tragic play, underperforming, demoralized, and out of ideas. Their collective inability to rise to the occasion, despite the mounting pressure, made the English dominance all the more painful to watch.

While Pakistan crumbled, Harry Brook stood tall, playing an innings that will go down in Test cricket lore. His performance was not just a display of skill but a bold declaration of the future of the game. 

Brook’s knock of 300 was more than an individual milestone; it symbolised a new generation of cricketers who approach the Test format with the same aggressive mindset cultivated in limited-overs cricket.

Joe Root, the seasoned campaigner, was the perfect foil to Brook’s youthful exuberance. Together, their partnership of 454 runs against Pakistan was an exhibition of England’s modern-day “Bazball” philosophy, where aggression is no longer the enemy of patience. It was a performance that effectively bled Pakistan dry. The dropped catch by Babar Azam only added to the symbolism of the moment—a Pakistan side falling apart in the face of unrelenting pressure.

Brook’s ability to shift gears at will stood out. He began his innings with the restraint of a classical Test batsman, respecting the conditions and the opposition. Yet, as Pakistan’s bowlers began to tire, Brook became an aggressor. His crisp footwork against spin, ability to find gaps, and clean, powerful hitting turned the contest into a one-sided affair. His use of the crease—dancing down the wicket to smother spin or rocking back to cut and pull—was a masterclass in how to play spin in subcontinental conditions.

It wasn’t just the runs but the strike rate at which Brook amassed them that set his innings apart. His 300 came at a pace unheard of in Test cricket’s traditional approach, further emphasizing the changing dynamics of the game. Brook’s triple century was a feast for purists and a signal of where the game is headed: innovation and aggression are no longer confined to the shorter formats.

Pakistan’s performance resembled a farcical tragedy. 

In this drama, Shan Masood’s hollow smiles and clueless leadership brought to mind the tragicomedy of characters like Beckett’s Vladimir and Estragon, endlessly waiting for something - anything - that might turn their fortunes around. But no rescue came, and the team was left exposed under the relentless assault of Brook and Root.

Meanwhile, England, led by the indefatigable Joe Root and the rising star Harry Brook, delivered a performance straight out of a Shakespearean epic. Brook, the young prince, ascended to greatness in the oppressive heat of Multan, displaying the kind of brilliance that turns players into legends. In a sense, his innings felt like a coronation—a young knight stepping into the realm of the cricketing greats.

Root’s dismissal, finally falling LBW to Salman Agha, felt like the briefest of interruptions in an otherwise flawless narrative. His innings, extended by Babar’s fateful dropped catch, added an almost tragic irony to Pakistan’s misery. 

Brook’s innings was a reflection of where Test cricket stands today, poised between the old and the new. While traditionalists might yearn for the days of grinding out innings, Brook’s 300 showed that aggression, when channelled correctly, can coexist with patience and endurance. His innings embodied the modern ethos of Test cricket—fast-paced, fearless, and dynamic.

At just 25, Brook’s maturity and adaptability in Multan signalled the arrival of a new superstar, one who will likely shape the future of Test cricket. His performance will be remembered not only for the runs but for the way he played them, methodically, elegantly, and with aggression that signalled the changing tide in the game.

In the end, as Pakistan’s players left the field defeated, their disjointed efforts stood in stark contrast to England’s fluid, attacking cricket. 

Brook’s triple century may well be remembered as a turning point in the annals of Test cricket, a moment when the future took its first real strides into the present. For Pakistan, the match will serve as a bitter reminder that smiles alone can’t win matches; in the end, strategy, grit, and determination are what separate champions from the rest.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar