Thursday, October 29, 2015

Wahab Riaz: Rekindling Pakistan's Fast-Bowling Legacy




The departure of Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif left a gaping void in Pakistan's fabled fast-bowling tradition. For five long years, the cricketing nation, known for producing pace maestros from Fazal Mahmood to Waqar Younis, searched in vain for bowlers who could replicate the fearsome potency of their predecessors. In their absence, Pakistan’s bowling arsenal seemed to lose its fabled “x-factor,” with the pacers relegated to mere supporting roles. 

The reins of Pakistan’s bowling attack passed to the spinners, who admirably shouldered the responsibility. The guile and consistency of Saeed Ajmal, the control of Mohammad Hafeez, the resilience of Abdur Rehman, and later, the artistry of Yasir Shah brought Pakistan several triumphs. Yet, the shift from pace to spin marked an unsettling divergence from a legacy built on speed and swing. It seemed as though the golden lineage of Fazal Mahmood, Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, and Waqar Younis was fading, leaving fans nostalgic for the days when a fiery delivery could tilt a match.

In this context of yearning and transition, Wahab Riaz emerged as a breath of fresh air—a bowler who redefined the narrative for Pakistan’s pace attack and, for a moment, made the world pause in awe.

The Early Struggles: A Story of Resilience 

Wahab's journey to prominence was anything but smooth. Making his Test debut against England at The Oval in 2010, he announced himself with a scintillating five-wicket haul. Yet, inconsistency and injuries marred his progress. For years, Wahab drifted in and out of the national team, raising questions about whether he could ever fulfil his promise. Lesser cricketers might have succumbed to frustration, but Wahab persevered, quietly honing his craft and biding his time. 

His hard work bore fruit. By 2015, Wahab had transformed into a force of nature, delivering fiery spells that rekindled Pakistan's rich fast-bowling tradition. 

The Spell of Adelaide: Wahab’s Defining Moment 

If one moment cemented Wahab’s place in cricketing folklore, it was his electrifying spell against Australia in the 2015 World Cup quarter-final at Adelaide. Bowling with unrelenting pace and venom, Wahab turned the match into a spectacle. Shane Watson visibly rattled, became the focal point of a ferocious duel that reminded fans of the primal thrill of fast bowling. 

Had Rahat Ali held onto a straightforward catch, Wahab might have emerged as the hero of the night. Instead, Australia escaped, and Pakistan exited the tournament. Yet, the spell transcended the outcome; it was a testament to Wahab’s fire and Pakistan’s enduring ability to produce bowlers who could strike fear into the hearts of the world’s best batsmen. 

Reviving the Art of Fast Bowling 

The Adelaide spell seemed to ignite a transformation in Wahab. He began to blend raw pace with precision, evolving into a bowler capable of dismantling even the most accomplished batting line-ups. Against Sri Lanka in Galle, he produced another riveting display, troubling the legendary Kumar Sangakkara with searing pace and relentless short-pitched bowling. 

Later in 2015, during the series against England in the UAE, Wahab delivered two masterclasses. On a lifeless Abu Dhabi pitch, he conjured reverse swing and sheer aggression to unsettle Ben Stokes. In Dubai, his nine-over spell of searing pace on a hot morning shattered England’s commanding position, sending tremors through their batting line-up. The sight of Joe Root, Ben Stokes, and Jos Buttler falling to Wahab’s relentless assault was a poignant reminder of the havoc a fast bowler can wreak. 

Wahab’s Resurgence and Pakistan’s Rebirth 

At 30, Wahab Riaz seemed to have rediscovered himself. No longer merely a workhorse, he had become a bowler who attacked with intent, pace, and guile. Wahab’s transformation also marked a resurgence in Pakistan’s pace-bowling identity. After years of relying on spinners, the spark of fearsome fast bowling was reignited, recalling the glory days of Akram, Waqar, and Shoaib Akhtar. 

Wahab’s revival carried more than personal significance; it symbolized a rebirth for Pakistan’s cricketing ethos. His fiery spells reminded fans that, despite setbacks and transitions, the soul of Pakistan cricket remains firmly rooted in the art of fast bowling. 

 A Legacy in the Making 

Wahab Riaz may never achieve the statistical grandeur of his illustrious predecessors, but his impact transcends numbers. He represents resilience, evolution, and a refusal to let Pakistan’s fast-bowling legacy fade into history. With every menacing spell, Wahab rekindles a tradition that has inspired generations. 

As long as Wahab continues to deliver with the passion and precision he has displayed in recent years, Pakistan cricket fans can rest assured that the legacy of their fast bowlers remains alive, burning brightly under the desert sun or in the cauldron of a packed stadium. Wahab Riaz is not merely a bowler; he is a bridge connecting Pakistan’s glorious past with its promising future.  

Thank You
Faisal Caesar

Friday, October 23, 2015

The Days in Santos – Pele: A Journey of Legend and Myth

 

Pele’s journey from the narrow streets of Bauru, in the state of São Paulo, to global footballing immortality was shaped by hardship, ingenuity, and an unrelenting passion for the game. Born into poverty, he supplemented his family’s meagre income by working in tea shops, yet his true wealth lay in the lessons passed down by his father. With no means to afford a proper football, he improvised—fashioning makeshift balls from a sock stuffed with newspaper, bound together with string, or, when even that was unavailable, using a grapefruit. These early struggles forged a resilience that would define his playing style: inventive, resourceful, and relentless.

As a youth, Pelé honed his skills with several amateur clubs, including Sete de Setembro, Canto do Rio, São Paulinho, and Ameriquinha. But it was with Bauru Atlético Clube’s junior team, under the guidance of coach Waldemar de Brito, that his potential began to crystallize. Leading the side to two São Paulo state youth championships, he demonstrated not only raw talent but an instinct for leadership and adaptation.

During his teenage years, Pele encountered a new frontier: futsal, a rapidly growing form of indoor football in Bauru. The fast-paced nature of the game demanded split-second decision-making, technical precision, and the ability to navigate tight spaces—skills that would later define his artistry on the grandest stages. Competing against adults at just 14, he was initially dismissed as too young, yet he defied expectations, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer with 14 or 15 goals. This experience proved transformative. "That gave me a lot of confidence," Pele later reflected. "I knew then not to be afraid of whatever might come." In the compressed space of a futsal pitch, Pelé sharpened the instincts that would later dazzle the world, proving that even in confined settings, greatness finds room to flourish.

Santos FC: The Making of a Global Icon

In 1956, Waldemar de Brito, recognizing the extraordinary promise of his young protégé, took the 15-year-old Pelé to Santos, an industrial and port city near São Paulo, to try out for Santos FC. De Brito, with prophetic certainty, told the club’s directors that the teenager would become "the greatest football player in the world." It was a bold claim, but one that would soon prove true. At the Estadio Vila Belmiro, Pelé dazzled during his trial, leaving an indelible impression on coach Lula. By June 1956, he had signed his first professional contract, and local media swiftly heralded him as a future superstar.

That prophecy materialized at astonishing speed. On 7 September 1956, at just 15 years old, Pele made his senior debut against Corinthians de Santo André. In a commanding 7–1 victory, he spectacularly announced himself, scoring the first goal of what would become an unparalleled career. By the start of the 1957 season, the teenager had secured a starting place in Santos’ first team, and by 16, he had already emerged as the league’s top scorer. His meteoric rise continued; just ten months after turning professional, he earned his first call-up to the Brazilian national team.

With his dazzling performances at the 1958 and 1962 World Cups, Pelé became the object of fierce pursuit by Europe’s wealthiest clubs. Real Madrid, Juventus, and Manchester United all sought to lure him away from Brazil, but their efforts were in vain. In 1958, Inter Milan even succeeded in securing a contract, only for club president Angelo Moratti to tear it up under immense pressure from Santos’ chairman and an outcry from Brazilian fans. Valencia CF, too, had an agreement in place to sign him after the World Cup, but Pelé’s breathtaking performances in Sweden made him untouchable. By 1961, the Brazilian government, fearing the loss of a national treasure, took the unprecedented step of declaring him an "official national asset," effectively barring any foreign transfer.

On the domestic front, Pelé’s dominance with Santos was nothing short of legendary. His first major triumph came in 1958, when he spearheaded the club to victory in the Campeonato Paulista, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer with an astonishing 58 goals—a record that remains unbroken to this day. The following year, he guided Santos to their first Torneio Rio-São Paulo title with a resounding 3–0 victory over Vasco da Gama, though the Paulista crown eluded them. Undeterred, Pelé continued to cement his supremacy, scoring 33 goals in 1960 to reclaim the Campeonato Paulista. Though Santos faltered in the Rio-Sao Paulo tournament, finishing a disappointing eighth, Pelé’s personal brilliance never waned. By the end of the 1960 season, he had amassed 47 goals, securing yet another Paulista title and leading Santos to their first Taça Brasil triumph, where he emerged as the tournament’s top scorer with nine goals. This victory paved the way for Santos’ entry into the prestigious Copa Libertadores, setting the stage for Pele’s legend to expand beyond Brazil and into the annals of global footballing history.

The Glory Years: Triumphs at Home and Abroad

By 1962, Santos had reached the pinnacle of South American football, embarking on what would become their most triumphant Copa Libertadores campaign. Drawn into Group One alongside Cerro Porteño and Deportivo Municipal Bolivia, they dominated the competition, dropping points only once—a hard-fought 1–1 draw away against Cerro. The semi-finals saw them dispatch Universidad Católica with ease, setting up a clash with defending champions Peñarol in the final. In a tense playoff, Pelé once again proved decisive, scoring twice to secure the first-ever Libertadores title for a Brazilian club. He finished the tournament as the second-highest scorer with four goals, his influence extending far beyond mere statistics.

Santos' supremacy in 1962 was not confined to the continental stage. Domestically, they defended both the Campeonato Paulista—where Pelé contributed an astonishing 37 goals—and the Taça Brasil, in which he scored four goals in the final against Botafogo. The crowning moment of the season, however, came in the Intercontinental Cup, where Santos faced Benfica in a showdown to determine the world’s best club side. In Lisbon, Pelé delivered one of the greatest performances of his career, orchestrating a 5–2 victory with a breathtaking hat-trick. Wearing his iconic number 10 shirt, he mesmerized the Portuguese crowd, cementing his status as football’s most electrifying talent.

Beyond the trophies and accolades, Pele’s artistry on the field was defined by moments of sheer genius—goals that transcended the game itself. His most cherished strike came in a Campeonato Paulista match against Clube Atlético Juventus on 2 August 1959 at Estadio Rua Javari. Though no video footage of this goal exists, its legend endured, prompting Pelé to commission a computer-animated recreation. Another of his most famous goals, the gol de placa (a goal worthy of a plaque), occurred in March 1961 against Fluminense at the Maracanã. Receiving the ball deep within his own half, Pelé embarked on a dazzling solo run, gliding past defenders with effortless feints before slotting the ball past the goalkeeper. The goal was so spectacular that a commemorative plaque was installed in the stadium, declaring it "the most beautiful goal in the history of the Maracana."

Santos continued their reign into 1963, entering the Copa Libertadores as defending champions and earning an automatic semi-final berth. Nicknamed the balé branco (white ballet) for their fluid and poetic style of play, they defended their crown with a series of stunning performances. Against a formidable Botafogo side featuring Brazilian greats Garrincha and Jairzinho, Pelé rescued Santos with a last-minute equalizer in the first leg before delivering a hat-trick in the second, leading his team to a commanding 4–0 victory at the Maracanã. 

The final saw Santos triumph over Boca Juniors, securing a hard-fought 3–2 victory in the first leg before sealing the title with a 2–1 win at La Bombonera. With another decisive goal from Pele, Santos became the first Brazilian club to win the Libertadores on Argentine soil. Though they finished third in the Campeonato Paulista that year, they compensated by winning the Rio-São Paulo tournament, thrashing Flamengo 3–0 in the final, with Pelé once again on the scoresheet. Further triumphs followed as Santos defended both the Intercontinental Cup against AC Milan and the Taça Brasil against Bahia.

However, the tide began to shift in 1964. Santos' dominance was halted in the Copa Libertadores semi-finals, where they fell to Independiente in both legs. Yet, Pelé’s brilliance remained undiminished—he scored 34 goals to lead Santos to another Campeonato Paulista title. The club also secured a shared Rio-São Paulo title with Botafogo and claimed their fourth consecutive Taça Brasil. The following year, Santos reached the Copa Libertadores semi-finals once more, setting up a rematch with Peñarol. Unlike in 1962, however, the Uruguayan giants emerged victorious, winning a decisive playoff 2–1 to eliminate Santos. Though his team fell short, Pele’s individual excellence remained unquestionable; he finished as the tournament’s top scorer with eight goals, proving that even in defeat, his brilliance was undiminished.

By December 1965, Santos had firmly established itself as the dominant force in Brazilian football, securing an unprecedented fifth consecutive Taça Brasil title. As ever, Pelé was at the heart of their triumph, sealing the final series with a decisive goal—a fitting testament to his enduring influence. However, the following year marked the end of Santos’ stranglehold on the tournament. Despite Pelé’s brilliance, his goals were not enough to prevent a crushing 9–4 aggregate defeat at the hands of a Cruzeiro side led by the prodigious Tostão. It was a humbling moment, signalling the beginning of a gradual decline in Santos’ absolute dominance.

Yet, while the national title eluded them, Santos continued to reign supreme in the Campeonato Paulista, reclaiming the championship in 1967, 1968, and 1969. It was during this period that Pelé achieved one of the most storied milestones in football history. On 19 November 1969, in front of a packed Maracanã Stadium, he scored his 1,000th career goal—a moment of national significance in Brazil. The goal, aptly named O Milésimo (The Thousandth), came from a penalty against Vasco da Gama. The anticipation and emotional weight of the event transcended sport, as the match momentarily paused to allow fans and journalists to celebrate the achievement of their beloved Rei do Futebol (King of Football).

Beyond the confines of Brazil, Pelé’s legend extended into global affairs, albeit shrouded in myth and speculation. One of the most widely circulated anecdotes surrounding his career is that in 1969, during the Nigerian Civil War, warring factions allegedly agreed to a 48-hour ceasefire so they could witness him play in an exhibition match in Lagos. Early reports, including a 1975 article in Ebony magazine, propagated this claim, stating that Pelé’s presence had momentarily halted a brutal conflict. In reality, Pelé himself remained uncertain, later recalling only an unusually heightened security presence at the match. Some sources, including Santos' official records, suggest that the truce may have actually coincided with a friendly in Benin City, near the border of the breakaway Biafra region. However, contemporary local research has found no definitive evidence of an official ceasefire. The legend, whether entirely accurate or not, speaks to the almost mythological aura surrounding Pelé, a player whose influence seemingly transcended the sport itself.

Throughout his tenure at Santos, Pelé was surrounded by an ensemble of exceptionally talented teammates, including Zito, Pepe, and Coutinho. His partnership with Coutinho, in particular, became the stuff of legend—an intuitive on-field connection that yielded countless goals and dazzling attacking sequences. After 19 seasons with Santos, Pelé bid farewell to Brazilian football, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy. His 643 goals for the club remain one of football’s most enduring records, a testament to his extraordinary longevity, consistency, and brilliance.

Pele: A Global Icon Beyond the Pitch

Although Pelé never played in a European league, his presence was felt across the continent and beyond through Santos' extensive international tours. These exhibition matches were more than just sporting events—they were grand showcases of footballing excellence that cemented his global legacy. He dazzled crowds in Spain against the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona, took on Italy’s most formidable clubs, including Juventus, Inter Milan, AC Milan, and AS Roma, and continued to enthral audiences worldwide with his extraordinary skill. 

Pelé’s reach extended far beyond footballing capitals. In 1973, he travelled to Egypt to face Al Ahly, just days after a match in Kuwait against Qadsia. It was in Kuwait that an unexpected and somewhat cinematic encounter took place—one that added an intriguing chapter to his global stardom. By chance, Pelé crossed paths with Egyptian film star Zubaida Tharwat, a celebrated beauty of Arab cinema, who was in the country for a film event. Their meeting, as recounted by Tharwat in a later interview, played out like a scene from a romantic film. 

Upon arriving at her hotel, she was met with an unexpected commotion—flowers, fans, and an air of excitement. At the center of it all stood Pelé, wearing a garland of roses. Unaware of his global fame, Tharwat watched as the footballing icon removed his floral necklace and placed it around her shoulders, a spontaneous gesture that left a lasting impression. The hotel staff, seeing her confusion, informed her that she was in the presence of none other than Pelé, the most celebrated footballer of the time. 

Tharwat later claimed that after their first encounter, Pelé persistently sought her attention, pursuing her with admiration and even expressing a desire to take her with him to Brazil. Fate seemed to conspire in their story, as Pelé’s next tour stop was Cairo, where the two crossed paths again. However, their interaction was hindered by a linguistic barrier—Pelé, at the time, did not speak English, leaving their connection as a fleeting but fascinating moment in the annals of his storied travels. 

This encounter, while anecdotal in nature, underscores Pelé’s larger-than-life presence. His charisma, much like his footballing prowess, transcended cultures, borders, and even language itself. Whether on the pitch or in unexpected meetings with cinema’s finest, Pelé remained an irresistible force, a figure whose impact extended far beyond the beautiful game.

Legacy: The Eternal King of Football

Pele was more than just a footballer; he was an ambassador of the sport, a symbol of joy, and a beacon of inspiration for millions. His days in Santos laid the foundation for a career that saw him win three FIFA World Cups (1958, 1962, and 1970), a feat unmatched by any player. His influence on the game remains unparalleled, and his name continues to be synonymous with footballing greatness.

Even decades after his retirement, Pelé's legacy endures. The stories of his genius, the records he set, and the moments of sheer brilliance he produced ensure that he will forever be remembered as O Rei—the King of Football.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar  

 

Sunday, October 18, 2015

From Stalemate to Spectacle: The Unfolding Drama of the Abu Dhabi Test




 
The Abu Dhabi Test was destined to slip quietly into the archive of dull matches—a storybook four-day draw marked by predictable run-scoring on a desolate pitch. The heat in Abu Dhabi bore down heavily on the players, the track as lifeless as a desert road, but cricket has a way of twisting plots when least expected. And with Pakistan at the crease, the final act of this seemingly banal Test took a dramatic, chaotic turn. 

Pakistan’s first innings laid a flat foundation. Shoaib Malik’s comeback century was commendable, Alastair Cook’s landmark double ton remarkable, but the sheer tedium of an unyielding track cast a shadow over individual feats. The bowlers—both Pakistani and English—labored under the relentless sun, unable to find any ally in the pitch, and a listless draw loomed. Four-and-a-half days of sleep-inducing cricket gave no hint of the whirlwind that would soon descend.

The unpredictable nature of the game shone through on the final day. Pakistan’s second innings took a disastrous turn, hinting that the game might indeed have some final twist left. It was England’s captain, Alastair Cook, who struck the first spark. The scoreboard read 47 for 3 after some shaky shots from Pakistan’s top order, with Shan Masood falling early to an innocuous ball rolling into his stumps and Shoaib Malik flummoxed by an uncharacteristically fierce bouncer from Anderson. England’s bowling, until then rendered ineffective, began to find new life as Cook’s imaginative field placements unsettled Pakistan’s batsmen. 

Cook's tactical play drew the battle lines for an impending implosion. He placed an aggressive, umbrella field on the leg side and instructed his bowlers to test Pakistan with sharp inswingers and deceptive off-cutters, coupled with the occasional outswinger to keep them guessing. Anderson and company hounded Misbah and Younis, Pakistan’s most experienced heads, building pressure with every over. By tea, Pakistan sat tentatively at 102 for 3, Misbah and Younis steadying the ship but aware of the growing tension.

The storm after tea revealed just how fragile Pakistan’s position had become. The pitch, which had played dead for days, began to turn, encouraging Cook to call upon his spinners, Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid, with an attacking field. Adil Rashid, who had been punished with figures of 0 for 163 in the first innings, finally found the pitch's assistance and, perhaps emboldened by Cook’s faith, proceeded to carve through Pakistan’s batting order. Moeen was effective, but it was Rashid’s day to shine. He exploited Pakistan’s hesitant footwork with relentless turn, taking five wickets in what would become a legendary spell for the young leg-spinner.

Pakistan’s batsmen, underestimating Rashid’s threat, crumbled. Younis fell to an ill-advised shot, and Misbah, uncharacteristically aggressive, met a swift end to Moeen Ali. A startling collapse followed, with Pakistan losing seven wickets for a meager 60 runs, the last five of those wickets falling for just 14 runs in a rapid 30-ball meltdown. Rashid, as effective as he was, could thank the erratic Pakistani batsmen who gifted him their wickets with reckless strokes.

With a meagre target of 99, England were on the brink of one of the most remarkable Test wins in recent memory. The scenario was reminiscent of Pakistan’s infamous collapse in the 2000 Karachi Test when England clinched an unexpected series victory on foreign soil. Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, and Jos Buttler—batting with urgency and skill—brought England to within 25 runs of triumph. But the fading light, much as it had done the previous evening, intervened, halting play and denying England the final glory.

Just sixteen wickets had fallen over the first four days; eleven would fall in the frenzied final session alone. It was a reminder that Test cricket, however monotonous it may seem, harbours the spirit of the unexpected, waiting to erupt into drama. Pakistan escaped defeat, but the warning bells were loud. This English side, spirited and disciplined under Cook’s innovative captaincy, was no repeat of 2012. England were dangerous, hungry, and willing to fight with every ounce of tenacity. If Pakistan doesn’t tread carefully, this series may turn in England’s favour before they can recalibrate.

In the end, the Test match was no longer a tedious draw but a testament to cricket’s unpredictability, its ability to blend endurance with moments of fierce drama.
 
Thank You
Faisal Caesar

Saturday, October 17, 2015

Aravinda de Silva: The Master Craftsman of Sri Lankan Cricket

In the grand narrative of cricket, the stature of a batsman is often measured not by his physical height but by the weight of his achievements. Aravinda de Silva, standing at a mere 5 feet 3 inches, was a colossus in his own right, wielding his bat with the artistry of a Renaissance painter and the precision of a master craftsman. His strokes were a blend of audacity and elegance, his technique an exquisite marriage of instinct and discipline.

The Evolution of a Genius

Sri Lankan cricket, still in its infancy on the international stage when de Silva emerged, was a team in search of an identity. In such an era, de Silva’s approach was both a blessing and a curse. A natural aggressor, he often batted with the reckless joy of a young man at the wheel of a fast car, unafraid of the bends ahead. Yet, in moments of clarity, he displayed the patience of a seasoned traveller who understands that not every road needs to be taken at breakneck speed. His early years were a testament to this duality—brilliant flashes of genius punctuated by moments of impetuousness.

His maiden Test hundred at Faisalabad in 1985, a marathon innings of 122 runs spread over 510 minutes, revealed a steely resolve beneath the attacking exterior. In Karachi, he produced an even finer gem—a lone century on a treacherous pitch, his 105 standing as an island of defiance amid a sea of mediocrity. Yet, despite such displays of brilliance, inconsistency marked his early years. Sri Lanka’s cricketing establishment, not known for its patience, dropped him briefly in 1986-87, a decision that, in hindsight, seems almost laughable.

The Transformation

As he matured, so did his batting. The carefree dasher evolved into a calculating maestro, picking his moments to attack while mastering the nuances of the long game. The 167 against Australia at the ‘Gabba in 1989-90, the monumental 267 at Wellington’s Basin Reserve in 1990-91, and the masterfully paced 148 against India in 1993-94—all spoke of a batsman who had learned to temper his fire without losing its glow.

His dominance at home was undeniable—an average of 52 in Sri Lanka compared to 43 overall—but it was his overseas performances that truly defined him. Unlike many subcontinental batsmen who flourished only in familiar conditions, de Silva was a traveller in the truest sense, adapting his game to the demands of foreign lands. In England, playing for Kent in 1995, he outshone some of the finest county cricketers, proving his mettle in conditions often hostile to Asian batsmen.

The Defining Moment

All great cricketers have a defining moment, an innings that etch their name into the annals of history. For de Silva, it came in Lahore, in the final of the 1996 World Cup. If Sri Lanka’s campaign had been a revolution in limited-overs cricket, then de Silva was its chief architect. His unbeaten 107 against Australia was not merely a match-winning century; it was a masterclass in composure, strokeplay, and the art of the chase. No other man has ever scored a hundred in the second innings of a World Cup final—a feat that speaks to both the magnitude of the occasion and the singular brilliance of its execution.

Yet, his contribution to that final extended beyond his batting. He took three wickets and held two catches, orchestrating Australia’s downfall before scripting Sri Lanka’s historic ascent. This was not just a performance; it was a coronation, a moment when de Silva transcended the game itself to become a symbol of his nation’s cricketing renaissance.

The Legacy

Captaincy was never his forte; he lacked the combative aura of Arjuna Ranatunga, preferring to lead through his performances rather than his words. He was, by all accounts, an unassuming man—docile, mild-mannered, and devoid of the theatrical bravado often associated with cricket’s great leaders. Yet, within the dressing room, he commanded immense respect. As his Kent teammate Graham Cowdrey recalled, “Ari was an inspiration... When he packed his bags, he hugged each of us, and I have never known a professional sports team so close to tears.”

Even in his final act, de Silva chose to depart in style, becoming only the fourth batsman in history to score a double century in his last Test match. It was a fitting farewell for a player who had always been an artist first, a cricketer second.

A Timeless Genius

What made Aravinda de Silva special was not just his runs or records, but how he scored them. He was a batsman who could make time stand still with a single stroke, a player who transformed the mechanics of batting into an aesthetic experience. In an era of power hitters and brute force, his game was a reminder that cricket, at its core, is an art form.

And like all great artists, his legacy is not confined to numbers on a scorecard. It lives on in the memories of those who watched him bat, in the quiet awe of teammates and opponents alike, and in the realization that, sometimes, the smallest man on the field can cast the longest shadow.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar 

Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Dunga’s Brazil: A Momentary Respite Amidst Growing Discontent




Carlos Dunga found himself at a critical juncture as Brazil’s head coach, navigating turbulent waters following a tactically underwhelming display against Chile that invited sharp global criticism. The clash against Venezuela, perceived as a relatively straightforward assignment, presented a crucial opportunity to regain lost ground. Fortunately for Dunga, Venezuela's status as underdogs played into Brazil’s hands, allowing the Seleção to seize control early on and secure a vital 3-1 victory.

First-Half Flourish: Willian Shines Bright

Brazil’s start was marked by a sense of urgency, embodying the flair and dominance their fans have come to demand. Willian, arguably the star of the evening, delivered a stellar performance in the opening half, scoring twice to propel Brazil into a commanding position. His sharp movements and clinical finishing revitalized the Brazilian attack, offering glimpses of the creativity and aggression once synonymous with the Seleção. Yet, even as Brazil dictated terms, the artistry and elegance that define their footballing heritage remained elusive.

Second-Half Slump: Old Habits Resurface

The second half, however, painted a different picture. The intensity and precision that marked the first 45 minutes faded, giving way to a lacklustre and disjointed performance. This regression allowed Venezuela to capitalize on one of Brazil’s persistent vulnerabilities: defending set-pieces. The visitors scored a historic goal on Brazilian soil, a moment that not only underscored Brazil’s defensive frailties but also reignited the spectre of unpredictability in Dunga’s tenure.

The tension was palpable as the possibility of squandering their first-half advantage loomed large. Yet, it was the veteran Ricardo Oliveira, at 35 years old, who quelled the nerves. Channelling his wealth of experience, Oliveira delivered a decisive third goal, a moment of redemption for a player often criticized for his perceived parallels with underperformers like Fred and Jô. His strike secured Brazil the much-needed three points and momentarily eased the pressure on Dunga.

Dunga’s Dilemma: Selection and Strategy Under Fire

While the victory buys Dunga time, the cracks in his managerial approach remain glaring. His continued preference for certain players over arguably more deserving options has become a recurring theme. Talented individuals such as Lucas Moura, Alexandre Pato, Lucas Lima, Renato Augusto, and Thiago Silva languish on the fringes, their exclusion raising questions about Dunga’s vision for the team.

Furthermore, this performance, albeit sufficient against a weaker opponent, offers little reassurance against stronger adversaries. The hallmark of a great coach lies in elevating his team’s consistency and delivering results against elite competition. For Dunga, the challenge is not merely survival but restoring Brazil’s footballing identity—a blend of beauty and effectiveness that resonates beyond fleeting victories.

A Long Road Ahead

As the dust settles on this match, the questions surrounding Dunga’s stewardship remain largely unanswered. The win against Venezuela provides a temporary reprieve, but it does little to dispel the concerns about Brazil’s tactical coherence and player management. For the Seleção to truly regain their stature, they must demonstrate similar resolve and dominance against formidable opponents. Only then can Dunga's position as coach be met with genuine acceptance, rather than reluctant tolerance.

Thank You
Faisal Caesar  

Sunday, October 11, 2015

A Forgotten Epic: The 1984 Karachi Test Between Pakistan and England


When Pakistan and England meet on the cricket field, the narrative often drifts toward controversies rather than the thrilling encounters that have defined their rivalry. Over the decades, their clashes have been marred by contentious incidents, souring relations between the two cricketing nations. Yet, amidst the turmoil and mistrust, their battles have gifted us some of the sport’s most unforgettable moments. One such forgotten classic was the first Test of England’s 1984 tour to Pakistan, played at Karachi—a gripping tale of resilience, nerves, and cricketing brilliance. 

Setting the Stage: Two Teams, Two Narratives

England arrived in Pakistan in the winter of 1984 on the back of a lacklustre season, having lost a Test series in New Zealand. Led by the formidable Bob Willis, England possessed a strong lineup featuring Ian Botham, David Gower, Allan Lamb, and Mike Gatting. Their record in Pakistan was enviable, having remained unbeaten in the country in 13 previous Tests. 

In contrast, Pakistan was a team in transition, missing their two stalwarts—Imran Khan and Javed Miandad—due to injuries. The captaincy was handed to the elegant Zaheer Abbas, while young talents like Rameez Raja and Saleem Malik were tasked with stepping into big shoes. The bowling responsibilities rested on the experienced Sarfraz Nawaz and the wizardry of leg-spinner Abdul Qadir, with support from unheralded names like Azeem Hafeez and Tauseef Ahmed. 

The Karachi pitch, traditionally friendly for batsmen, hinted at deterioration as the match progressed, making the toss a crucial moment. Willis, wary of his team’s struggle against spin, opted to bat first. 

England’s First Innings: A Tale of Two Halves

England’s opening pair of Christopher Smith and Mike Gatting displayed classic Test-match grit, carefully negotiating the early movement from Sarfraz and Azeem Hafeez. Their watchful approach yielded a solid start, with England reaching 90 for 1 shortly before tea. However, the introduction of Sarfraz’s reverse swing and Qadir’s leg spin triggered a collapse. Sarfraz dismissed Smith and Lamb in quick succession, while Qadir bamboozled Randall with a spinning beauty. England ended the first day precariously placed at 147 for 4. 

The second day saw the Pakistani bowlers tighten their grip. Abdul Qadir and Sarfraz ran riot, dismantling England’s lower order with clinical precision. Qadir’s artistry earned him a five-wicket haul (5 for 74), while Sarfraz’s guile fetched 4 for 42. England was bundled out for a modest 182, a score that belied their promising start. 

Pakistan’s Response: Cook’s Left-Arm Magic

Pakistan’s reply began confidently, with openers Mohsin Khan and Qasim Omar batting fluently. But the introduction of Nick Cook, England’s left-arm spinner, changed the narrative. Cook struck repeatedly, dismantling Pakistan’s top order and leaving them reeling at 105 for 5. Zaheer Abbas, the captain and batting linchpin, fell for a duck, compounding Pakistan’s woes. 

Saleem Malik, however, stood firm amidst the chaos. His assured footwork and calm temperament anchored the innings as he found an unlikely ally in Abdul Qadir. The duo added a vital 75 runs for the seventh wicket, frustrating the English bowlers. Malik’s gritty 74 and Qadir’s valuable 40 guided Pakistan to a crucial lead of 95 runs, with Nick Cook finishing with impressive figures of 6 for 65. 

England’s Second Innings: A Collapse Under Pressure

England’s second innings began on a cautious note but soon descended into disarray. Sarfraz’s reverse swing and Qadir’s variations proved too much for the visitors. Controversial umpiring decisions added to England’s misery, with Allan Lamb and others falling to contentious calls. 

By lunch on the fourth day, England’s lead was a meagre 33 runs with seven wickets down. The tail offered little resistance, and Pakistan dismissed England for 128, leaving themselves a target of just 65 runs to win. 

A Chase to Remember: High Drama in Karachi 

What should have been a straightforward chase turned into a nerve-wracking affair. Nick Cook, enjoying the Test of his life, dismissed Pakistan’s top order in quick succession. Ian Botham’s brilliance in the slips and Norman Cowan’s stunning outfield catch compounded Pakistan’s panic. At 40 for 6, with their unbeaten record at Karachi under threat, Pakistan teetered on the brink of a dramatic collapse. 

Enter Anil Dalpat and Abdul Qadir. The duo steadied the ship, inching Pakistan closer to the target with cautious singles and resolute defence. Even as Qadir fell, Pakistan held their nerve. With just three runs needed, Sarfraz Nawaz edged a boundary to seal a memorable victory, 25 minutes before the day’s close. 

The Legacy of Karachi 1984

This match, Pakistan’s first victory over England in 13 home Tests, remains a forgotten gem in cricket’s annals. It exemplified the drama and unpredictability that make Test cricket the pinnacle of the sport. Yet, as time has passed, the focus has shifted to the controversies that have often overshadowed this historic rivalry. 

As Pakistan and England prepare for their next Test series, one can only hope for encounters that echo the spirit of Karachi 1984—a battle of skill, resilience, and nerves. Let the cricketing world remember such classics, celebrating the timeless beauty of the game over its contentious moments.

Thank You
Faisal Caesar