Arafat Rahman is The Hero of Bangladesh Cricket

Fourteen years have passed since Bangladesh achieved Test status—a milestone not easily won in world cricket. Since that historic moment, Bangladesh cricket has faced highs and lows, disappointments and victories. As the team stands today in a period of transition, its future seems brighter under new head coach Chandika Hathurusingha. With seasoned players like Shakib Al Hasan, Tamim Iqbal, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Mahmudullah Riyad leading the way, there is an optimism that the Tigers might soon roar louder than ever. But these stars did not emerge overnight; their journey is tied to the painstakingly built structure of Bangladesh cricket that took shape over the past two decades. 

Behind this journey, often overlooked, was a man who set Bangladesh cricket on the path to serious development—Arafat Rahman Koko, the younger son of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. At a time when Bangladesh cricket was on shaky ground, Arafat's involvement played a critical role in steering the game toward professionalism and growth. His contributions may not always find their place in the official narratives, yet his impact is etched in the foundational structure of the sport in Bangladesh.

A Turning Point: The Struggles of 2003

The turning point came in 2003, following a disheartening performance at the ICC Cricket World Cup in South Africa. Bangladesh cricket was under intense scrutiny as critics questioned the team’s ability to compete at the international level. Calls for reform and demands for an overhaul echoed in the media. It was in this bleak scenario that Arafat, then Chairman of the Development Committee of the Bangladesh Cricket Board, took matters into his own hands, determined to change the narrative.

Arafat’s approach was grounded in a vision for long-term development. Leveraging connections made during his studies in Australia, he sought to bring in international expertise, laying the groundwork for Bangladesh’s cricketing future. This vision led to the appointment of Dav Whatmore as head coach—a pivotal decision that brought renewed discipline and professionalism to the team.

An Early Foundation: The High-Performance Unit

The Bangladesh tour of Pakistan in 2003 served as a testing ground, where a young, inexperienced Bangladesh side took on a seasoned Pakistan team. While victory eluded them, the series revealed glimpses of potential, albeit thwarted by lapses in temperament and, at times, questionable umpiring decisions. But the performance instilled a sense of urgency that Arafat was quick to act on. 

On May 14, 2004, he established the High-Performance Unit, an initiative that aimed to develop young players with a blend of skill, fitness, and psychological resilience. This was no ordinary training program; it included video analysis, tactical training, psychological development, and even lessons in language, health, and nutrition. Players like Mushfiqur Rahim, Tamim Iqbal, Shakib Al Hasan, and Mahmudullah emerged from this system, equipped to take on the challenges of international cricket.

The High-Performance Unit, under the guidance of Australian coach Richard McInnes and CEO Macky Dudhia, became a hub of talent development. It was a space where young players could hone their skills, cultivate discipline, and envision themselves as future stars. This initiative laid the foundation for Bangladesh’s competitiveness on the global stage, and its success is evident in the achievements of the players who came through its ranks.

Rising Through the Ranks: Bangladesh’s Milestones

Between 2004 and 2007, Bangladesh’s performances began to turn heads. They recorded historic victories, beating India in an ODI, clinching their first series wins, and famously defeating Australia in Cardiff in 2005. Each achievement served as an inspiration for the next generation, showing that Bangladesh was capable of competing with cricket’s elite. Arafat’s groundwork was starting to bear fruit, and Bangladesh’s win against India and South Africa in the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup remains one of the most memorable moments in the nation’s cricketing history.

The Transformation of Sher-e-Bangla Stadium

Arafat’s contributions were not confined to talent development. He spearheaded the transformation of Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium from a football ground into a cricket venue of international standards. From installing an innovative drainage system to upgrading the seating and facilities, his efforts turned the stadium into one of South Asia’s premier cricket grounds. This transformation allowed Bangladesh to host international matches and establish Sher-e-Bangla as a fortress for the national team.

The Shadow of Political Turmoil

Despite his contributions, Arafat’s legacy has been overshadowed by the political turbulence that followed. In April 2007, Bangladesh was thrust into a period of political upheaval with a military-backed interim government taking charge. Arafat became a target, and he, along with his mother, faced numerous allegations and court cases. Eventually, Arafat left Bangladesh, relocating to Thailand and later to Malaysia, where he lived until his untimely death in 2015.

His life, marked by a dedication to Bangladesh cricket, ended in tragedy, leaving a void that remains unacknowledged in the official annals of Bangladesh’s cricket history. His work with the Bangladesh Cricket Board and his role in developing the sport have faded into the background, overshadowed by political controversies and subsequent narratives.

A Legacy Yet to Be Honored

Today, cricket in Bangladesh stands on solid ground. While it still faces challenges, there is a system in place that nurtures young talent, instils resilience, and fosters professionalism—thanks in no small part to Arafat Rahman. Yet, the mention of his name remains a quiet, almost whispered acknowledgement, seen by some as politically charged in the current climate. This silence does not erase his contributions; if anything, it underscores a debt of recognition that Bangladesh cricket owes him.

In the truest sense, history will remember Arafat Rahman for his contributions, even if they remain uncelebrated today. His role in shaping Bangladesh cricket is a testament to his dedication, and, in time, his legacy will find its rightful place. One day, when the history of Bangladesh cricket is revisited with clarity and fairness, Arafat Rahman’s contributions will be acknowledged for the solid foundation they laid. The Tigers may now roar with confidence, but the silent architect of that confidence is a man who gave his heart to the sport, never seeking glory—only the chance to see Bangladesh thrive on the international stage.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Missed Opportunities: Bangladesh's World Cup Preparations

As the cricketing world buzzes with activity in anticipation of the 2015 ICC World Cup, Bangladesh’s approach to preparation has raised significant concerns. While most participating teams, including Associates, have engaged in active competitive cricket, the Tigers have confined themselves to net practice, routine warm-ups, and coaching drills. In an era where on-field readiness is crucial, this choice appears to be a glaring misstep.  

Global Preparations in Full Swing 

The prelude to the World Cup has seen top teams immerse themselves in high-intensity cricket. Australia, India, and England are locked in a fiercely competitive triangular series Down Under. South Africa is hosting the West Indies in a demanding five-match ODI series, while New Zealand and Sri Lanka have been honing their skills in Kiwi conditions. Even Associate teams like Ireland, Scotland, and Afghanistan recently contested a triangular tournament in Dubai, gaining valuable match experience.  

In stark contrast, Bangladesh, alongside Zimbabwe, remains conspicuously absent from active match preparation. The Tigers' reliance on training drills and nets instead of live matches has sparked concerns among fans and analysts alike.  

The Importance of Match Practice

For a global event hosted in the challenging conditions of Australia and New Zealand, match practice is not just important—it is essential. These conditions, with their extra bounce, pace, and expansive outfields, demand a level of acclimatization that nets alone cannot provide. Competing against quality opposition in match scenarios exposes flaws, builds resilience, and helps players adapt to the nuances of foreign conditions.  

Missed Opportunities in Dubai  

The ICC had proposed a preparatory tournament in January featuring Bangladesh, Zimbabwe, and Associate teams like Afghanistan, Ireland, Scotland, and the UAE. While the Associate teams participated enthusiastically, Bangladesh's absence was conspicuous. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) offered no clear explanation for this decision.  

Participation in this tournament would have served multiple purposes:  

1. Testing Player Readiness:  

It would have provided an ideal platform to evaluate the World Cup squad under match conditions. Players vying for key roles could have been assessed, and the best XI finalized with clarity.  

2. Psychological Edge:  

Playing and performing well against Afghanistan and Scotland—Bangladesh's group-stage opponents—would have given the Tigers a vital psychological advantage heading into the World Cup.  

3. Early Adaptation:  

Competing in Dubai, with its conditions marginally similar to Australia and New Zealand, would have helped the players transition to faster pitches and bigger grounds.  

The Delay in Traveling Down Under  

Another perplexing decision has been the late travel to Australia. Instead of arriving early to acclimatize and face domestic Australian or New Zealand teams in practice matches, Bangladesh chose to remain at home for routine drills. This delay eliminates the opportunity to experiment with team combinations or refine strategies under realistic conditions.  

Early travel would have allowed players to:  

- Adapt to the unique challenges of Australian pitches, such as pace and lateral movement.  

- Gain experience against the domestic cricketing setups of Australia and New Zealand, which often reflect the strengths of their national sides.  

- Identify and address specific technical shortcomings that might have been exposed in actual matches.  

A Missed Chance for Strategic Growth

This passive approach to preparation reflects deeper issues within the Bangladesh cricket hierarchy. In modern cricket, where every major team embraces proactive and dynamic preparation, the BCB’s reluctance to prioritize match readiness seems shortsighted. While coaching drills have their place, they cannot replicate the mental and physical demands of competitive cricket.  

The Road Ahead

Bangladesh's fans and cricketing fraternity can only hope that this missed opportunity does not translate into a poor showing at the World Cup. The Tigers have a talented core, led by the likes of Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Tamim Iqbal. However, talent alone cannot suffice in a tournament where preparation and adaptability often determine success.  

The World Cup is a stage for not just skill but also strategic planning. The Tigers’ preparation—or lack thereof—will soon face the ultimate litmus test. Whether this gamble pays off or backfires remains to be seen, but the absence of match practice may very well leave Bangladesh wondering about what could have been.  

 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

The Anatomy of a Perfect Back Lift: Lessons for Bangladeshi Batsmen

In cricket, a batsman’s backlift is the foundation of their stroke play. It sets the stage for timing, balance, and execution, especially on challenging tracks like the bouncy pitches of Australia. For the Bangladesh cricket team, while stalwarts like Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim exemplify textbook precision, the same cannot be said for most of their compatriots. As the Tigers venture Down Under, understanding and refining the nuances of a proper backlift becomes not just desirable but indispensable.  

Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim: The Epitome of Precision

Both Shakib and Mushfiqur exhibit exemplary backlifts, a testament to their technical acumen. Shakib, for instance, maintains an unwaveringly still head as he initiates his stroke. His forearm aligns almost parallel to the ground, while his top wrist—a crucial factor—sits higher than the elbow, providing control and balance. The left-hand remains higher than the right, ensuring a vertical lift of the bat in line with the stumps.  

This high and controlled back lift is critical for playing back-foot strokes on bouncy tracks. It affords the necessary momentum and precision to deal with rising deliveries or execute punches off the back foot with authority. Mushfiqur’s technique mirrors Shakib’s, marking them as Bangladesh’s most reliable batsmen in alien conditions like Australia. Their success hinges on complementing this technical strength with disciplined footwork and a solid defensive game.  

The Struggles of the Rest

Unfortunately, many Bangladeshi batsmen deviate significantly from this technical ideal. The flaws in their back lifts are glaring and symptomatic of broader technical deficiencies:  

1. Angled Back Lift:  

Players like Mahmudullah Riyad and Mominul Haque often pick their bats up toward the second or third slip, creating a natural inclination to play across the line. This approach not only disrupts their timing but also leaves a dangerous gap between bat and pad, rendering them vulnerable to deliveries that seam or swing back in.  

2. Lack of Wrist Cocking:  

A proper back lift requires the wrist to cock naturally, allowing the face of the bat to open toward the bowler. Riyad and Mominul, however, often fail to achieve this, leading to a restricted range of motion and reduced control over their shots.  

3. Tamim Iqbal’s Exception:  

Tamim Iqbal, on the other hand, is an anomaly. His unorthodox style defies conventional technical scrutiny. Relying heavily on instinct and rhythm, Tamim’s back lift and overall batting mechanics are less about textbook precision and more about natural talent. While his approach can yield spectacular results, it also leaves him vulnerable in conditions where technique reigns supreme.  

Why the Back Lift Matters on Bouncy Tracks

Australian pitches, characterized by their pronounced bounce and pace, demand technical perfection from batsmen. A high and straight back lift becomes critical for several reasons:  

1. Generating Power:

  

The high back lift allows batsmen to build the requisite momentum for driving and cutting, especially against short-pitched deliveries.  

2. Adjusting to Bounce:

  

A vertical lift ensures the bat comes down straight, aiding precise contact with deliveries that rise awkwardly off the pitch.  

3. Defensive Solidity: 

 

 A technically sound back lift enables a compact defence, reducing the likelihood of gaps between bat and pad—a weakness often exploited by bowlers on bouncy tracks.  

4. Freedom for Back-Foot Play:

 

The ability to transfer weight onto the back foot and execute cuts or pulls relies heavily on the lift’s alignment and balance.  

Hope in Soumya Sarkar 

Among the emerging players, Soumya Sarkar has shown promise with a back lift that is more aligned with modern batting techniques. If complemented by improved footwork and temperament, Soumya could become a valuable asset in challenging overseas conditions.  

Conclusion: The Need for Technical Refinement

A batsman’s life at the crease often depends on the subtleties of their back lift, particularly on surfaces that test technique. For Bangladesh, relying solely on natural talent or instinct will not suffice in conditions like Australia. The likes of Shakib and Mushfiqur may thrive due to their technical prowess, but the rest of the lineup must address their flaws to elevate their game.  

Ultimately, the journey toward batting consistency begins with the basics. Refining the back lift, along with footwork and defensive techniques, is not just a matter of aesthetics—it is the difference between mediocrity and mastery, especially in the crucible of Test cricket.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Bangladesh Cricket: A Wishful Reflection for 2015

The year 2014 was an uninspiring chapter in the history of Bangladesh cricket. After the Tigers concluded 2013 with a flicker of promise, hopes were high for greater triumphs. Instead, the journey of the national team in 2014 was strewn with disappointment, both on and off the field. The fans endured a season of frustration, marked by insipid performances and disheartening controversies.  

A glimmer of redemption arrived towards the end of the year when Bangladesh triumphed over a fragile Zimbabwe side. Yet, that modest achievement could scarcely erase the earlier heartbreaks. As 2015 dawns—a harbinger of fresh starts and renewed ambitions—let us articulate a wishlist for Bangladesh cricket, a yearning for what might yet be.  

Restoring Confidence: A Vital Foundation

Bangladesh’s early encounters in 2014, particularly against Sri Lanka, betrayed a fragile psyche. Lofty expectations quickly collided with a harsh reality, leading to a rapid erosion of self-belief. By mid-year, the team found itself at rock bottom, with humiliating losses against Afghanistan and even associate sides like Hong Kong underscoring their decline.  

The resurgence against Zimbabwe late in the year rekindled a flicker of confidence, but such self-belief must now be nurtured with unwavering focus. Confidence, after all, is the bedrock upon which great teams are built. A confident and cohesive Bangladesh side in 2015 would not only delight fans but also set the stage for sustainable progress.  

A World Cup to Remember

The ICC Cricket World Cup looms large on the horizon, presenting an opportunity to rewrite narratives. This will be Bangladesh’s fourth appearance on cricket’s grandest stage. To date, their performances in global tournaments have oscillated between fleeting brilliance and prolonged mediocrity.  

While it may seem overly ambitious to dream of the Tigers emerging as one of the tournament’s dark horses, the talent within the squad cannot be overlooked. With meticulous planning, disciplined execution, and strategic brilliance, Bangladesh could deliver performances that transcend the tiresome "winning hearts" consolation. The dream is simple yet profound: a World Cup campaign that fans can cherish and one that elevates the nation’s standing in the cricketing fraternity.  

Elevating Test Cricket Standards 

Fourteen years into their journey in the longest format, Bangladesh’s Test cricket record remains a sobering testament to their struggles. Though the team has occasionally offered glimpses of promise, these are overshadowed by recurring inadequacies.  

To earn the respect of the cricketing world, excelling in Test cricket is non-negotiable. The format demands not just skill but resilience, patience, and tactical acumen—traits the Tigers must embrace. In 2015, a concerted effort to secure consistency and competence in Test cricket would mark a significant milestone in the team’s evolution.  

An End to Off-Field Chaos

The turbulence within Bangladesh cricket in 2014 was not confined to the pitch. Disputes, egos, and controversies frequently dominated headlines, often overshadowing the sport itself. Such distractions erode public trust and undermine the morale of players and fans alike.  

A controversy-free year, where the focus shifts entirely to cricketing exploits, is not just desirable—it is essential. Harmony within the cricketing ecosystem, from players to administrators, can foster an environment conducive to progress.  

A Visionary Cricket Board

At the heart of a successful cricketing nation lies a robust governing body. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) must rise above personal vendettas and parochial interests, embracing a vision of professionalism and accountability. The guardians of the game should prioritize strategic planning, infrastructure development, and player welfare over self-serving agendas.  

In 2015, a soundly organized BCB could become a beacon of hope, steering Bangladesh cricket toward a brighter future. A board driven by the true spirit of the game would inspire not only players but also fans, uniting the nation in its collective aspiration for excellence.  

Final Thoughts: A Dream Worth Chasing

This wishlist is undoubtedly ambitious, perhaps even utopian. Yet, dreams are the seeds of change. To quote the immortal words of John Steinbeck,“A journey is a person in itself; no two are alike.” Let 2015 be the year when Bangladesh cricket embarks on a transformative journey—one that propels them from mediocrity to meaningful achievement.  

The road ahead is fraught with challenges, but within those challenges lies the promise of redemption. If Bangladesh cricket can dream boldly and work resolutely, nightmares will yield to dreams fulfilled.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar