The Bangladesh Cricket Team stands on the cusp of a historic
decision, with a proposed tour of Pakistan that includes a Test series
alongside shorter format matches. Should the tour materialize, it would mark
Bangladesh’s return to Pakistan for Test cricket after a hiatus of over two
decades, the last such encounter occurring in 2003. However, as with previous
attempts, uncertainty looms large over the tour’s fate. The Bangladesh Cricket
Board (BCB) finds itself navigating a delicate balance, reportedly
contemplating a proposal to shift the series to a neutral venue should the
Bangladesh government withhold its clearance. This cautious approach reflects
not only the complexities of geopolitics and security but also the weight of
history that underscores such a momentous decision.
On December 3, 2019, Akram Khan, the chairman of cricket
operations at the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), articulated a cautious stance
regarding the proposed cricket tour of Pakistan. “If we get the clearance from
the government, we can start discussions with the Pakistan board, but we are
yet to get the clearance. Everything will depend on what the government wants.
We will definitely sit with the players to take their opinion as well if the
government gives clearance for the tour,” he remarked.
The BCB’s proposal to split the series—playing the shorter
formats in Pakistan and the Test matches at a neutral venue—did little to
appease the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). For a nation striving to restore
international cricket on home soil, this compromise undermined their efforts.
Hosting a partial series would dilute the symbolism of their hard-earned
progress.
The Sri Lankan
Precedent
Pakistan recently hosted Sri Lanka for a full Test series,
marking the return of the longest format to its soil after a decade. The series
concluded without incident, and Sri Lankan players left with glowing reviews of
the hospitality and security arrangements. The PCB’s meticulous planning
ensured that every detail was accounted for, and the success of the series became
a testament to Pakistan’s readiness to host international cricket.
Ehsan Mani, the PCB chairman, expressed his frustration over
the BCB’s hesitance. “No one should be under any misapprehension as to where
Pakistan's home Tests will take place. All of Pakistan's matches, against
Bangladesh or anyone else, will take place in Pakistan,” he declared. Mani’s
comments underscored the PCB’s resolve to reclaim its status as a host
nation.
A Historical Bond
Forged Through Cricket
From a historical perspective, Pakistan has played an
instrumental role in nurturing Bangladesh’s cricketing aspirations. Despite the
turbulent history between the two nations, particularly during Bangladesh’s
liberation war in 1971, cricket became a bridge that helped mend
relations.
In the mid-1970s, cricket in Bangladesh was struggling to
find its footing. The war-torn nation faced insurmountable challenges, and the
sport was overshadowed by the popularity of soccer. However, the then Board of
Control for Cricket in Pakistan (BCCP) extended a helping hand.
In 1975, the BCCP invited Bangladesh to nominate a player
for the World XI to participate in a celebratory tournament marking the
centenary of Mohammad Ali Jinnah’s birth. Raquibul Hasan, Bangladesh’s nominee,
became a symbolic representative of the nation’s cricketing potential. His
inclusion introduced Bangladesh to the global cricketing community and set the
stage for the MCC’s historic visit to Dhaka in 1977, where Bangladesh played
its first first-class match.
During the 1980s, Pakistan continued to support Bangladesh’s
cricketing development. Tours by Pakistani teams and visits from cricketing
icons like Imran Khan and Sarfraz Nawaz inspired young Bangladeshi players.
These initiatives helped popularize cricket in a nation dominated by soccer,
laying the foundation for Bangladesh’s eventual rise as a Test-playing
nation.
The Case for
Bangladesh’s Participation
From a purely cricketing perspective, Bangladesh stands to
gain significantly by playing more Test matches against Pakistan. Pakistan’s
bowling attack, renowned for its quality and depth, offers a formidable
challenge that could help Bangladeshi batsmen improve their technique and
temperament. Exposure to such high-quality opposition is essential for
Bangladesh to elevate its standing in Test cricket, a format where they
continue to struggle.
The argument against touring Pakistan on security grounds
has become increasingly untenable, especially in light of Sri Lanka’s
successful series. The PCB has demonstrated its ability to host international
teams safely, and further reluctance from the BCB risks isolating Bangladesh in
the global cricketing community.
A Step Toward
Reconciliation
Beyond cricket, a tour of Pakistan represents an opportunity
for Bangladesh to strengthen ties with its neighbour. Cricket has long been a
unifying force, capable of transcending political and historical divides. By
agreeing to play in Pakistan, Bangladesh would not only honour its cricketing
roots but also pave the way for greater regional camaraderie.
Conclusion
The hesitation to tour Pakistan is understandable given the
complexities of geopolitics and security concerns. However, the benefits of
taking this step far outweigh the perceived risks. For Bangladesh, the tour is
not just an opportunity to compete but a chance to honour the historical support
that Pakistan provided during their formative years in cricket.
If Bangladesh aspires to grow as a cricketing nation, it must embrace challenges, even those that come with uncertainties. By playing in Pakistan, Bangladesh would reaffirm its commitment to Test cricket, strengthen its ties with a key cricketing neighbour, and, most importantly, take a bold step toward building a brighter future for the sport in the region.
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