Alok Kapali, once a bright star in Bangladesh cricket, has long navigated a challenging journey marked by both brilliance and setbacks. After a prolonged absence following his return from the controversial Indian Cricket League (ICL), Kapali has been named in the squad for the upcoming T20 and ODI series against the West Indies. His inclusion brings to light the unresolved tension between raw talent and unrealized potential that has often defined his career.
Since his debut against Sri Lanka in 2002, Kapali’s skill set was apparent to even the harshest critics. Bangladesh may have faltered as a team in that series, but Kapali stood out, impressing observers with his refined technique and admirable temperament. In those early years, batting at No. 5 or No. 6, he confronted some of the fiercest fast bowlers in world cricket with an approach that exuded maturity beyond his years. Whether accelerating the run rate or anchoring the innings, Kapali demonstrated a versatility that set him apart.
As a bowler, Kapali has never been a significant turner of the ball, but his role has always been more about precision and control than extravagant spin. His ability to deliver consistently under pressure culminated in a landmark achievement: the first and only Test hat-trick for Bangladesh, a testament to his flair for rising to the occasion.
However, Kapali’s career took a sharp detour with his participation in the ICL, leading to a 10-year ban from international cricket. Though he exited the ICL after one season and returned to domestic cricket with renewed determination, his road back to national selection was anything but smooth. Despite strong domestic performances, the selectors seemed to favour players like Raqibul Islam and Mohammad Ashraful, leaving Kapali on the sidelines. This decision, though perplexing, was perhaps a reflection of the cricket board’s caution rather than a fair judgment of Kapali’s abilities.
In contrast, Mohammad Ashraful, a player of immense natural talent, has often failed to deliver the consistency expected at the international level. Despite his occasional brilliance, his record is peppered with disappointing performances. Kapali, on the other hand, has shown greater mental resilience and reliability, qualities that are crucial in international cricket. His temperament, arguably his greatest asset, could provide the stability Bangladesh’s middle order desperately needs.
The upcoming series against the West Indies presents a critical juncture. The Caribbean side has long struggled against quality leg-spin, and this is where Kapali’s inclusion could prove to be a masterstroke. His ability to stifle the opposition with his controlled leg-breaks adds a dimension to Bangladesh’s bowling attack that could exploit the West Indies' known weaknesses.
The debate now centres around whether Kapali will be picked in the first XI. Ashraful’s name may still hold sway with the selectors, but Kapali, Bangladesh has a cricketer who brings both experience and a measured temperament to the table. Slotting him at No. 4 in the limited-overs format could provide the team with a more balanced approach in the middle overs, especially against an unpredictable West Indies side.
Kapali’s return to the fold is a narrative of resilience, and if given the opportunity, he has the potential to cement his place in the team once again. His journey is a reminder that talent when paired with perseverance, can often outshine even the brightest prodigies. All eyes will now be on whether this opportunity marks the rebirth of a career that has, at times, felt unjustly sidelined.
Thank You
Faisal Caesar
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