An Open Letter to Baz: A Story of Inspiration

Dear Baz, 

Life often takes us on journeys that challenge our spirit and test the depths of our resilience. For me, one of those journeys began on **February 6, 2016**, when I lost my father—a man who fought a courageous battle against tongue cancer for five long years. Despite our efforts, the disease unleashed its fury, and in the stillness of that fateful night, my father’s battle ended with a sudden and devastating blow. 

As a doctor, the sense of helplessness I felt was profound. Despite my medical training, I could do nothing to alter the inevitable. His passing left an emptiness in our lives, a chasm that words could not fill. My family was shattered, but as the only son, I bore the weight of responsibilities. My father’s burial, consoling my grieving mother and sister, and steadying my wife—all fell upon my shoulders. 

Amidst this turmoil, I had to face another challenge: my MD examinations in Internal Medicine at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, scheduled just two days after my father’s passing. The thought of focusing on something so mundane as exams felt almost cruel, but I chose to face them—not because it was easy, but because life demanded it. 

As I walked this path of grief and duty, I found strength in unexpected places. Among them was your story, Baz. 

The Journey of an Unlikely Leader 

Your ascension to the captaincy of the New Zealand cricket team was met with scepticism and controversy. The critics favoured Ross Taylor and your early days at the helm were anything but smooth. Who could forget the disastrous series against South Africa, where Dale Steyn, Morne Morkel, and Vernon Philander tore through the Kiwi batting order? It was a baptism by fire that left New Zealand cricket—and your leadership—under the microscope. 

But where many would have crumbled, you stood firm. Instead of succumbing to the criticism, you transformed it into a catalyst for change. By 2014, under your leadership, New Zealand cricket had evolved into a force to be reckoned with. Your men played a fearless brand of cricket—aggressive, dynamic, and yet, always respectful of the game’s spirit. 

You embraced accountability, shunning the blame game that often dominates modern sports. Even in the face of umpiring errors, you refused to fan controversies, choosing instead to focus on your team’s own shortcomings. This rare humility became your hallmark. 

A Legacy Beyond Stats 

Your leadership transcended tactics and strategies. It was a philosophy—one that valued sportsmanship over gamesmanship. The way you honoured Phillip Hughes by instructing your bowlers to avoid bouncers and curbing wicket celebrations during a match spoke volumes about your character. These gestures didn’t just honour a fallen colleague; they reminded the world of cricket’s true essence. 

Your approach revived interest in Test cricket, a format many had deemed obsolete in the age of T20 leagues. By playing an attacking style, you made five-day cricket thrilling once again, drawing young fans to the stadiums and television screens. You proved that aggression on the field could coexist with grace and dignity. 

In limited-overs cricket, your strategies redefined what it meant to play fearlessly. Setting attacking fields even against the opposition’s best batters showed a belief in your team’s abilities that inspired confidence and admiration. 

The Inspiration You Provided 

Baz, your story mirrored my own struggles in many ways. Just as you turned the tide for New Zealand cricket, I had to muster the courage to face my own challenges. Your journey from an entertainer to one of the game’s most respected captains was a testament to resilience and self-belief. It taught me that failure is not the end but a stepping stone to greatness. 

Your decision to retire at the height of your powers exemplified another rare quality: knowing when to bow out. By stepping away before the weight of personal milestones clouded your judgment, you left cricket not just as a great player but as an enduring inspiration. 

 A Thank You from Bangladesh 

As you step away from the international stage, know that your impact goes far beyond the boundaries of cricket fields. You have inspired countless individuals like me—doctors, students, and cricket fans alike—to persevere in the face of adversity. 

Thank you, Baz, for showing the world that true leadership lies not in accolades or records but in character, courage, and compassion. 

With heartfelt gratitude, 

A son, a doctor, and a cricket fan from Bangladesh  

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Romance of West Indies Cricket: A Glimmer of Hope Amidst Gloom

 For decades, West Indies cricket was the heartbeat of the sport, a dynamic force that mesmerized fans with an effortless blend of artistry and athleticism. Today, that heartbeat falters, and the decline of this once-mighty cricketing powerhouse has left the global cricket fraternity both exasperated and nostalgic. Yet, every now and then, a spark rekindles hope—a reminder of what the Caribbean islands once represented in the game’s grand tapestry. 

Yesterday’s West Indies victory, even as it came at the expense of a strong Indian side, was met with an unspoken delight by cricket lovers worldwide. It wasn’t just a win; it was a celebration of resilience and a rekindling of romance in the sport. For those who cherish cricket beyond borders and rivalries, this win was not just about numbers on a scoreboard; it was about the possibility of revival. 

A Legacy Worth Fighting For 

The West Indies of yesteryear were more than just a team; they were cricket’s ultimate entertainers, ambassadors of a style that combined ruthless efficiency with irresistible charm. The towering presence of Viv Richards at the crease, the artistry of Brian Lara’s backlift, and the menacing pace of Malcolm Marshall or Michael Holding—the memories are etched into the soul of cricket. Fans skipped school, work, and dates to watch these maestros in action. 

But West Indies cricket was not just about flamboyance. What endeared them to fans across the globe was their dignity. The Caribbean greats didn’t rely on sledging or intimidation through words; their bat and ball did the talking. They embodied the spirit of cricket—fierce competition without sacrificing respect for the game. 

The Fall from Grace 

The fall began in 1995, when West Indies lost their first home Test series in 15 years. It was a symbolic moment, marking the end of an era. Since then, the decline has been steep and distressing, marred by administrative mismanagement, internal disputes, and a shift in priorities from passion to profit. 

The West Indies Cricket Board’s inability to manage resources, coupled with player exoduses to lucrative T20 leagues, has turned a once-dominant cricketing nation into an inconsistent shadow of its former self. Greed and self-interest have overshadowed national pride, and the results have been comical at times, infuriating at others. 

The Spark of a New Dawn 

Enter the young guns of the West Indies U-19 team: Gidron Pope, Alzarri Joseph, Shimron Hetmyer, Keacy Carty, Keemo Paul, Chemar Holder, and Shamar Springer. These players represent a flicker of hope amidst the gloom. Their performances in recent tournaments have showcased a blend of youthful exuberance and mature cricketing acumen. 

Their bowling has been a revelation, evoking memories of the fearsome pace quartet of Holding, Roberts, Marshall, and Garner. On flat tracks, these young pacers bowled with venom, unsettling seasoned batting lineups from Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. Their batting, meanwhile, combined aggression with composure, a nod to the Caribbean flair of old. 

For the first time in years, fans can dare to dream. Could these young cricketers be the harbingers of a West Indies renaissance? 

The Challenge of Sustained Revival 

However, the road to revival is fraught with challenges. Talent alone cannot lift West Indies cricket from its doldrums. Structural reform within the West Indies Cricket Board is imperative. Administrative efficiency, player management, and a focus on nurturing grassroots talent must take precedence over short-term financial gains. 

Equally critical is a change in mindset among senior players. Their leadership, both on and off the field, is crucial to fostering unity and purpose within the team. National pride must outweigh individual interests if West Indies cricket is to rise again. 

Why the World Still Roots for West Indies 

Despite their decline, the West Indies remain beloved. Their victories, however rare, bring a universal smile, transcending national allegiances. Why? Because the West Indies symbolize cricket at its purest—joyful, uninhibited, and breathtakingly beautiful. Even in their defeats, there is an innocence that resonates with fans. 

A Romantic Hope 

For now, the young U-19 team has given the cricketing world a reason to hope. Their joyous celebrations remind us of a simpler time when West Indies cricket wasn’t mired in controversy but celebrated for its audacity and elegance. 

If administrators, players, and fans alike can rally around this new generation, perhaps the Caribbean can reclaim its place in cricket’s pantheon. For now, cricket lovers across the world are content to celebrate this moment—a flicker of the old West Indies charm, a reminder of why we fell in love with cricket in the first place.  

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

A Tale of Grit and Grace: Zakir and Miraz Engineer a Historic Triumph

On a brisk Friday in Mirpur, the Nepal U-19 team came tantalizingly close to toppling Bangladesh on home soil, presenting a masterclass in discipline and determination. For much of the game, Nepal held the upper hand, evoking memories of 2012 when Bangladesh faltered in the ICC U-19 World Cup quarterfinals. The spectre of past failures loomed large. Once again, the Tigers faced a familiar narrative—pressure, collapse, and the risk of squandering opportunity. 

At 98 for 4, with Bangladesh reeling, captain Mehedi Hasan Miraz joined Zakir Hasan at the crease. What followed was not just a rescue act but an extraordinary demonstration of maturity under pressure. Their partnership was not just a statistical achievement; it was a masterclass in batting intelligence and composure, paving the way for Bangladesh’s maiden semifinal berth in an ICC event. 

The Anatomy of a Remarkable Partnership 

Reading the Conditions

The Mirpur pitch had been a bowler’s ally throughout the day, offering sharp turn and unpredictable bounce. Nepal’s spinners thrived, exploiting every nuance of the surface. In such treacherous conditions, Zakir and Miraz adapted their game plan with remarkable clarity. They opted to play the spinners predominantly off the back foot, a strategy that allowed them to counter the turn while buying precious time to read the deliveries. This subtle yet crucial adjustment demonstrated their astute cricketing minds. 

The Importance of Wickets in Hand

In high-pressure chases, collapses are often triggered by rash decisions or panic. Zakir and Miraz displayed the wisdom of seasoned campaigners, prioritizing crease occupation over risky stroke play. By spending time in the middle, they not only stabilized the innings but also gradually diminished Nepal’s stranglehold. 

 Unflinching Composure 

As the required run rate crept upwards, lesser batsmen might have succumbed to desperation. Yet Zakir and Miraz were unfazed, treating pressure as an ally rather than an adversary. Their calmness under fire set the tone for the partnership, showing that composure is often as important as skill in the crucible of knockout cricket. 

The Art of Strike Rotation 

Modern cricket, with its penchant for boundary-hitting, often undervalues the subtlety of strike rotation. Zakir and Miraz, however, executed this art with aplomb. Instead of resorting to risky lofted shots, they relied on singles and twos, using deft placements to keep the scoreboard ticking. This constant movement of the score not only eased the pressure on themselves but also unsettled Nepal’s bowlers, denying them any rhythm. 

Their ability to pick gaps with surgical precision was a testament to their cricketing intelligence. The calculated risks they took in running between the wickets ensured that the innings retained its momentum, a quality often overlooked in high-stakes matches. 

A Day to Remember 

While Bangladesh’s triumph will be remembered for Zakir and Miraz’s heroics, the contest itself was a riveting affair. Nepal showcased immense talent, with left-arm pacer Mehedi Hasan Rana and batter Raju Rijpal shining brightly. Nepal’s spirited defence of a modest total and their disciplined fielding underscored their potential to compete at the highest level. 

Yet, as the dust settled, the spotlight inevitably returned to Zakir and Miraz. Their unbeaten partnership wasn’t just a feat of survival; it was a blueprint for navigating pressure, a lesson in how to anchor an innings while chasing. 

The Significance of Victory 

This victory marked a watershed moment for Bangladesh cricket. For a team that had struggled in critical knockout matches, overcoming Nepal’s challenge to reach the semifinals was both a catharsis and a revelation. It highlighted the evolution of a team that had learned to conquer its nerves and seize the moment. 

A Blueprint for Future Success 

The Zakir-Miraz partnership will be etched in Bangladesh cricket’s annals not merely for its immediate impact but for the template it provides. It reaffirmed that cricket is as much a battle of wits as it is of skill. The duo’s ability to assess conditions, neutralize threats, and construct a chase with precision offers a guiding light for future generations of Bangladeshi cricketers. 

In the end, it was a tale of grit, grace, and glory—a day when the Tigers roared not with reckless aggression but with calculated resolve.

 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

A Star in the Making: Shanto’s Knock Shines Amidst Adversity

On a humid morning in Cox’s Bazar, the stage was set for a battle of grit and guile. The early morning moisture, a medium pacer’s dream, played havoc with Bangladesh’s young guns as Ryan Gifford Brown and Mohammad Ghaffar of Scotland dismantled the top order with precision. At 17 for 2, the hosts were teetering on the brink of calamity. Yet, from the ashes of this precarious start, a teenage prodigy arose to script a masterpiece. 

The Early Blows and a Calm Arrival 

Pinak Ghosh fell to a teasing fuller-length delivery, while Joyraz Sheik's ill-fated stroke at a rising ball gifted a simple catch to point. As fans clamoured on social media over the lack of live coverage of the match, Nazmul Hossain Shanto strode to the crease, calm yet purposeful. At just 17 years old, Shanto carried the weight of his team’s hopes. 

Temperament Over Talent 

Shanto’s entry mirrored his earlier heroics: a gritty 92 against Sri Lanka U-19, and a 124-run partnership with Saif Hassan in South Africa. These feats weren’t mere recollections but evidence of a boy wise beyond his years, who understood that the true battle was fought ball by ball, over after over. 

The first challenge came in the form of Scotland’s Finlay McCreath, whose opening delivery—a yorker-length ball—was met with a confident defence. Shanto’s footwork was decisive; his temperament, was unyielding. His restraint against McCreath’s tempting short ball outside off was a lesson in discipline, a trait rare among batsmen of his age. 

The Building Blocks of a Masterpiece 

As the pitch began to dry, aiding the batsmen, Shanto shifted gears. Against leg-spinner Haris Aslam, he danced down the track to drive through extra cover, showcasing impeccable timing and an acute sense of placement. While boundaries were interspersed throughout his innings, Shanto’s hallmark lay in his ability to rotate the strike. His partnership with Saif Hassan exemplified tactical acumen, with quick singles and deft twos keeping the scoreboard ticking. 

The duo’s 101-run stand was a masterclass in complementary batting: Shanto’s fluency balancing Saif’s solidity. After Saif’s departure, captain Mehedi Hasan Miraz joined Shanto, bringing aggression to the fore. Together, they forged a scintillating 100-run partnership, blending calculated counterattacks with steady consolidation. 

A Hundred Etched in Elegance 

As Miraz’s fireworks captured attention, Shanto, just shy of his century, continued his methodical approach. When Ghaffar dismissed Miraz late in the innings, Shanto was unfazed. With sublime confidence, he launched the very next ball over midwicket for four, reaching a remarkable hundred. His 113 not out was a blend of patience and flair, a knock that steered Bangladesh to a commanding position. 

Lessons from a Prodigy 

Shanto’s innings is a study in modern batsmanship: the art of balancing aggression with composure. His ability to manoeuvre the field, his hunger for singles and doubles, and his knack for pacing an innings make him a rarity among boundary-focused contemporaries. He isn’t just a cricketer with potential; he’s a craftsman with a vision. 

As the U-19 World Cup progresses, Shanto’s performances have set a benchmark. His resilience under pressure, combined with a hunger for excellence, bodes well for Bangladesh’s cricketing future. If nurtured well, Shanto might not just be a rising star; he could be the bedrock of a nation’s cricketing aspirations. 

The Bigger Picture 

In an era where cricket often celebrates the pyrotechnics of power hitters, Shanto’s approach serves as a gentle reminder of the beauty of a calculated innings. It is not the boundaries alone that define greatness but the ability to craft an innings that stands the test of time. For now, Shanto has given Bangladesh a reason to believe, and the cricketing world a glimpse of a rare gem

Thank You

Faisal Caesar