The Anatomy of a Triumph: Real Madrid’s mastery at the Stade de France

When Real Madrid feature in a Champions League final, they do not simply play; they arrive with a singular mission—to lift the trophy. And in Paris, on a chaotic night fraught with off-field disarray, they once again affirmed their mystique, securing a 14th European crown with a display that felt more like fate than football.

At the heart of this triumph was Thibaut Courtois, whose goalkeeping performance bordered on the supernatural. Madrid had relied on miracles throughout their campaign, and at the Stade de France, Courtois delivered yet another—a defiant, logic-defying performance that stifled a dominant Liverpool side.

A Night of Chaos and Resilience

For Liverpool’s fans, the night began in confusion and ended in heartbreak. Outside the Stade de France, fans were subjected to inexplicable gate closures and pepper spray, creating a tense and chaotic environment. The kick-off was delayed by 36 minutes, but the disruption extended beyond the stands. The Liverpool squad, delayed in traffic, arrived amid uncertainty about their starting eleven, with Thiago Alcântara’s fitness an enigma until the teams emerged on the pitch.

However, once the game began, Liverpool sought to impose order. Their midfield executed coordinated moves, seamlessly linking with the forward line, dominating possession, and creating wave after wave of attacks. Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, and Sadio Mané looked menacing, exposing Madrid’s backline time and again. Yet every promising moment collided with an unassailable wall—Courtois. 

Salah’s early efforts were met with reflex saves, and Mané’s seemingly goal-bound strike was miraculously tipped onto the post. Liverpool had Madrid on the ropes, registering ten shots to their opponent’s solitary attempt by halftime. But the missed opportunities hinted at an ominous truth: in football, especially against Madrid, domination without conversion invites disaster.

Madrid’s Tactical Shift and the Moment of Truth

Madrid’s first-half struggle demanded a response, and Carlo Ancelotti delivered it with a subtle tactical adjustment. He overloaded the right side of midfield, creating space on the left, where Vinícius Júnior lurked with intent. The shift paid off when Fede Valverde whipped a low, driven cross into the box, evading the scrambling Liverpool defence and finding Vinícius. Unmarked at the far post, the young Brazilian slotted the ball home, leaving Alexander-Arnold in his wake.

Liverpool pressed for an equalizer, but fate seemed to favour Madrid. Salah, desperate to avenge the defeat in Kyiv four years earlier, continued to threaten, only to be denied time and again by Courtois. The Belgian keeper’s finest moment came late in the match when Salah weaved through the Madrid defence and unleashed a curling shot—only for Courtois to parry it with his outstretched right hand. It was a save destined to linger in Champions League folklore.

The Architect of a Legacy: Ancelotti’s Masterstroke 

While much credit belongs to the heroes on the pitch, Real Madrid’s triumph is also a testament to the quiet genius of Carlo Ancelotti. When Ancelotti returned to Madrid in 2021, he inherited a club at a crossroads. The shadow of Zinedine Zidane’s departure loomed large, and the squad, though rich in talent, needed recalibration. 

Ancelotti’s brilliance lies not merely in tactical acumen but in man-management—an ability to balance the old guard while nurturing young talents. He gave Vinícius Júnior the freedom to evolve from a raw, erratic winger into a lethal forward. Ancelotti recognized that the Brazilian’s fixation on dribbling was inhibiting his growth, urging him to adopt a more decisive approach. The result? Vinícius transformed into the perfect complement to Karim Benzema, becoming the Robin to the Frenchman’s Batman.

The Italian tactician also dared to move beyond glamour signings. Eden Hazard and Gareth Bale, once central to Madrid’s ambitions, were gradually sidelined. Younger talents—Fede Valverde, Eder Militão, and Rodrygo—were entrusted with key roles, creating a dynamic squad that blended experience with exuberance. Madrid, a club notorious for draining young potential, now found itself flourishing under the stewardship of Ancelotti.

A Legacy Etched in Silver 

Ancelotti’s return to Madrid is a story of redemption. He took over at a time when the club demanded not just results but a stylistic overhaul. In seasons past, he had faced similar challenges. At Chelsea, he wanted Andrea Pirlo but turned Michael Essien into an effective playmaker instead. At Madrid in 2013, he reinvented Ángel Di María, converting him from a winger into a midfield maestro behind Cristiano Ronaldo and Benzema.

This ability to adapt—blending pragmatism with vision—has become the hallmark of Ancelotti’s career. His decisions are not without cost; his refusal to indulge Florentino Pérez’s demands to play Martin Ødegaard or alter Gareth Bale’s role in 2015 contributed to his dismissal. Yet, these same qualities have made him indispensable. His second stint at Madrid exemplifies that success requires not just tactical brilliance but the courage to resist external pressures.

In winning his fourth Champions League as a manager—a feat unmatched in modern football—Ancelotti joins the pantheon of legends. His Madrid is not just a collection of stars but a cohesive unit built on trust and purpose. While Modrić, Benzema, and Courtois will rightfully bask in the glory, Ancelotti’s fingerprints are etched across this campaign.

Don Carlo: The Eternal Maestro 

There is a reason they call him "Don Carlo!" Ancelotti is not merely a manager; he is an alchemist, turning challenges into opportunities, and stars into legends. Under his watch, Real Madrid has claimed five Champions League titles in nine years—a feat that borders on the mythic. In Paris, amid the chaos and beauty of a Champions League final, Ancelotti proved once again that his genius is not just in winning but in creating enduring legacies.

Madrid’s 14th Champions League triumph is not just a victory; it is a culmination of philosophy, resilience, and belief. It is a testament to the fact that in football, as in life, those who adapt, persevere, and believe are the ones who ultimately lift the crown.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Sri Lanka triumph, Bangladesh let down by poor batting display

The kind of team Sri Lanka brought to Bangladesh previously was much better than the current one. Their batting and bowling lineups used to boast some of the best in the history of Test cricket and thrashing Bangladesh was like a cakewalk for them. They created a legacy against Bangladesh in Test cricket - a legacy that the current generation is carrying on despite being in tatters.

The Sri Lankan team that had just won the Test series against Bangladesh is beleaguered and were not expected to win - but their ability to fight back whenever they were cornered enabled them to maintain the record established by their predecessors.

Four years ago, Bangladesh had the opportunity to break the jinx against Sri Lanka at home, which they botched courtesy of a poor batting display in the second innings, and four years later, the feat was repeated - Sri Lanka won by 10 wickets - something which was not even expected.

Surely, a team cannot expect to win if the top order continues to fail consistently in both the innings.

In the first innings, they lost 5 wickets within 7 overs for 24 runs whereas, in the second, they lost 4 for 23 runs when the lights were fading and shadows were turning tall on Day 4.

Yet again, Bangladesh expected Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das to dish out yet another special partnership like the first to save the day, but such things don't happen all the time - cricket is a team game, and each and everyone needs to step up.

Shakib Al Hasan kept the hopes alive and when he was dismissed, achieving victory was just a matter of time.

15 batters from Bangladesh were out in single digits in both innings, which included nine ducks - this is some kind of a record that the Tigers would love to forget as soon as they land in the West Indies.

Most importantly, Bangladesh's performance with the bat in their respective second innings remains poor as usual.

In the first Test against South Africa this year, all the hard work went in vain when they collapsed in the second outing - it was repeated against Pakistan last year and back in 2019, Afghanistan triumphed despite rain-washed days courtesy of another lack of intent in the darkness where Bangladesh needed was to stay at the wicket and see off the day safely.

Bangladesh have been bundled out for less than a hundred runs thrice in their last seven outings!

Nazmul Hossain Shanto, who bats at number 3, has scored 279 runs in the last 15 innings at an average of 18.06 whereas the skipper Mominul Haque has scored just 176 runs in the last 15 at an average of 12.57 - quite an unacceptable performance.

Whether the Bangladeshi batters run out of steam or lack of commitment throughout the five days remains a moot question and even after so many years, the ghost of batting in the second innings tends to revisit.

"In both the innings [in the second Test against Sri Lanka], we were 24 for four and 24 for five in the first innings. We are not going to win Test matches from those positions. We have got to change something," said a frustrated Bangladeshi coach Russell Domingo.

"It happened too many times in the last six to eight months. And if that means we have to change the order and look for one or two new options, we possibly have to do that going forward"

"Like we did before going to New Zealand, we are going to have to prepare really well [for the tour of the West Indies]. We need to be willing to leave balls and be very patient and go back to old-fashioned Test match batting. We need to do something different and take a look at the batting order. Because if we do the same thing, we will get the same result," added Domingo.

Sri Lanka's fighting spirit deserves accolades

After a poor tour of India, they discovered a mess at home and changes in management.

Sri Lanka needed to show determination and then push for the win, which they did in Chattogram and Dhaka.

Angelo Mathews has scored two centuries in a Test series since 2015 whereas Dinesh Chandimal rediscovered his mojo by scoring a hundred since 2018. The 199-run stand between Mathews and Chandimal for the sixth wicket in Dhaka is the highest for the pair in Test cricket. Niroshan Dickwella, known for being reckless, exhibited discipline in Chattogram to arrest a collapse.

Concussion substitute Kasun Rajitha and inexperienced Asitha Fernando put the home side batters under all sorts of trouble with accuracy, pace, and bounce.

Fernando became only the second fast bowler in their history to bag a ten-wicket haul since their bowling coach Chaminda Vaas.

Rajitha and Fernando shared 17 wickets in between them on a deck where there was hardly anything for the pacers.

Sri Lanka have conquered Bangladesh and have left the Tigers with plenty to ponder. 

Note: This article has been posted at Cricketsoccer on 27/05/2022 Sri Lanka triumph, Bangladesh let down by poor batting display

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Special One’s Redemption: Mourinho and Roma’s Triumphant Return to European Glory

On a warm night in Tirana, at Arena Kombëtare, Roma found their moment in the sun. It all began with an audacious ball from centre-back Gianluca Mancini, whose precision found Nicolo Zaniolo ready for the spotlight. With the deftest of touches, Zaniolo controlled the ball on his chest, nudged it past an onrushing Justin Bijlow, Feyenoord’s keeper, and brought the match to life in the 32nd minute. Roma took a slender but electrifying lead.

The players leapt up from the bench, their joy palpable. Yet one figure stayed still, eyes fixed, his expression unmoved: José Mourinho. The job was far from over, and he, more than anyone, knew the intensity required to see it through. With an hour remaining, the Italian side would be under siege.

Feyenoord retaliated with full force, striking the woodwork twice as Roma’s grip on their lead grew tenuous. Yet every strike, every shot on target was met by Rui Patricio’s unwavering presence in goal. Mourinho’s approach was characteristically stoic, tactical, and pragmatic—defensive solidity and counter-attacking poise. A strategy he had deployed time and again in his career. For him, there was pride in "building from the back," forcing opponents forward, only to punish their vulnerability on the counter. His detractors called it conservative; Mourinho called it effective. After all, a trophy speaks louder than tactics.

And so, as the final whistle sounded, history was made. Mourinho became just the second manager, after Giovanni Trapattoni, to claim five major European trophies, and Roma lifted their first continental title since 1961. Mourinho, the self-proclaimed “Special One,” now embodied something else in the eyes of the Roma faithful—a symbol of resilience and redemption.

Yet Mourinho’s path to greatness was anything but smooth. In 2000, he’d been thrust into the limelight at Benfica, succeeding Jupp Heynckes after just four weeks. Despite swift improvements under his command, club politics cut short his tenure when newly elected president Manuel Vilarinho opted to bring in his own man. It was a misstep that Vilarinho would later regret. Mourinho moved on to Uniao de Leiria, lifting a struggling side into the league's top-tier ranks. Soon after, he led FC Porto to unlikely European glory, his tactical prowess and charisma now impossible to ignore.

Porto’s historic triumph in 2004 cemented Mourinho as a force. But the ambitious Portuguese manager was only just beginning. Chelsea came next, a team with resources yet no clear roadmap to greatness. Mourinho laid the foundations for a team that would dominate the English Premier League, a blueprint for success that he would replicate across Europe with Inter Milan, Real Madrid, and Manchester United. But his defining trait was always this: the willingness to take on teams that needed rebuilding, to push them to their limits, and to make winners out of unlikely contenders.

His work at Roma proved no different. After a shattering 6-1 defeat to Bodo/Glimt, many speculated if the Mourinho era at Roma might unravel before it began. But adversity, for Mourinho, is fuel. He went back to basics, instilling unity in his squad and refocusing them on his ironclad defensive principles. The tactical system that emerged, blending a 3-5-2 or 3-4-3, became a natural fit for Roma’s young talents. Chris Smalling, Ibanez, and Gianluca Mancini formed a formidable trio in defence, while Tammy Abraham, Lorenzo Pellegrini, and Zaniolo shone in attack. Under Mourinho, even Henrikh Mkhitaryan—a player whose relationship with Mourinho had been strained at Manchester United—found fresh purpose.

Roma began to look different. Nicola Zalewski, once a central midfielder, flourished as a left winger, and Stephan El Shaarawy became a valuable substitute option, injecting pace and flair when needed. Mourinho’s pragmatism, as always, balanced his side, allowing youth to flourish with the reassurance of defensive discipline behind them.

It was the culmination of Mourinho’s tactical acumen and motivational prowess. The team stood transformed, defying expectations, and Tammy Abraham’s 27-goal haul was a testament to the renewed attacking freedom Mourinho inspired. "He is the best," Abraham exclaimed, and it was hard to argue otherwise. Roma’s victory wasn’t just Mourinho’s—it was a triumph of resilience, patience, and mastery of strategy.

Reflecting on his career, Mourinho noted, “It is one thing to win when everyone expects it, when you made the investments to win, but it’s quite another to win when something feels immortal, that feels truly special.” Indeed, he etched his name alongside Sir Alex Ferguson and Giovanni Trapattoni as one of the few to win titles in three different decades, a rare and extraordinary feat.

But as BT Sport’s Joe Cole suggested, this was just the beginning. Mourinho’s arrival had restored direction to Roma, rekindling belief in a club and a city where football is religion. His journey at Roma is ongoing, and one cannot help but feel that more triumphs await. As Mourinho retreats to the drawing board to plan Roma’s next steps, the Special One continues his quest—not for glory alone, but for greatness that transcends the trophy cabinet, leaving a lasting legacy on the sport.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

​

The unique partnership between Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das

When Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das met together at the batting crease, on Day 1 of the 2nd Test between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, the house was on fire and both of them were standing on the ashes.

A rebuilding, like the one engineered by Wallis Mathias and Shujauddin, who added 86 runs after Pakistan were reduced to 22/5 by West Indies on Day 1 of the 1959 Dhaka Test, was needed. Once again, Dhaka witnessed one of the finest comebacks in the history of Test cricket.

5, 48, 12, 5, 7, 0, 51, and 1 - these had been the scores for Mushfiqur Rahim before this series. His batting form, execution of adventurous strokes during crunch moments, statements during the pressers, and emotional exhibitions, made his lean path critical.

Bangladesh's best batter was under pressure. But when the going gets tough, the tough get going. Little Mushfiq decided to fight back. In this series, pressure is bringing the best out of him.

On the other hand, Litton Das was simply peppered with harsh treatment by the fans and critics. Even some of the corporate companies in Bangladesh started to make fun of him.

He decided to give each and every critic a fitting reply and guess what - in the last 12 months or so, Litton Das is the most improved batter for Bangladesh. No matter what life throws at him, he is ready to face the challenge and emerge stronger.

Sri Lankan pacers give jitters to Bangladesh in the morning

Day 1 of the second Test was sun-kissed. The weather was sultry. The pitch seemed like helpful for the seamers in the first 10 overs but after that, set to become a batting-friendly surface.

Within seven overs, Kasun Rajitha and Asitha Fernando had Bangladesh reeling. Bowling from wide off the crease, Rajitha got one to straighten up and hit the timber of Mahmudul Hasan Joy.

He also took down the offstump of Nazmul Hasan Shanto and trapped Shakib Al Hasan lbw. Meanwhile, Fernando kissed the edges of Tamim Iqbal and Mominul Haque's bat, giving easy catches behind the wicket. Bangladesh were in deep trouble at 24/5!

Bangladesh fans are familiar with humiliations and at Mirpur, yet another one was on the cards.

Epic turnaround - Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das create history

It was very important to see-off the new ball and dig deep to build a productive partnership. One batter had to play the role of a sheet anchor.

Mushfiqur Rahim decided to hold one end. Litton invested in the intent to execute shots so that Dimuth Karunratne, the Sri Lankan skipper, could be forced to switch to a more defensive field set.

For most of the first day, Litton Das flexed his muscles and his initial trigger movement on the back foot helped him tackle short-pitch deliveries from the Lankan pacers.

After lunch, Fernando pitched short and targeted the body. But Litton Das was quick to pivot on to the back foot and get on top of the bounce - Fernando could only watch the ball run towards the boundary.

Karunaratne brought on the spinners but they were mediocre and gave away too many loose deliveries. Litton Das and Mushfiqur Rahim cashed in and also settled down at the wicket as the day progressed.

Litton Das established his authority on the legside as soon as he fetched two boundaries off Ramesh Mendis. Praveen Jayawickrama was dealt with easily and runs came thick and fast. 13 off his boundaries came in the arc between fine leg and long-on.

Sri Lanka started to melt under the heat of Dhaka and courtesy of their indiscretions, Litton raced through the 80s and 90s to his second Test hundred. He collected three boundaries and five overthrows from 79 to 101 in the space of 13 balls.

But he was not done yet, as the right-hander continued to send the ball to the boundaries only to pile more agony on the Lankan fielders and bowlers. Mushfiqur Rahim, on the other hand, was steadier, resolved, and focused!

His intention was to occupy the crease and when he settled down, he picked up the rhythm and was all set to gift Bangladesh something big.

One of the highlights of Mushfiqur Rahim's epic knock was curbing the intent to execute the reverse sweep, which has scripted his downfall many times. On Day 1, he hardly walked that path, and his innings kept getting better.

The Lankan spinners bowled too full against Mushfiqur Rahim and he stepped out to hit them through the offside. The Lankan pacers tested him with short-pitch deliveries but he was sensible enough to duck or weave.

On Day 2, Mushfiqur Rahim lost Litton, but before that, their 272-run stand for the sixth wicket became part of Bangladesh cricket's folklore. No pair has added 200-plus runs after losing five wickets for 25 runs or less.

The previous highest was a hundred-run stand between Nkrumah Bonner and Joshua Da Silva against Sri Lanka at Galle when West Indies were reduced to 18/6.

Again, Litton Das' 141 was the highest score by a number 7 batter after coming to bat with a score of 25 or less. The previous best was Moin Khan's 117 against Sri Lanka in 1995 when Pakistan were reeling at 15/5!

Mushfiq doggedly pressed the team's total in the company of the tail-enders and his 49-run partnership with Taijul Islam frustrated Sri Lanka even more in the morning session. He crossed the 150-mark in that process - the fifth time he did this in his illustrious Test career.

The former Bangladesh captain was not out on 175 as Bangladesh ended their innings at 365. They became the only team in Test history to post 300 or more runs after losing five wickets for 35 runs or less. The previous best was India's 266 against New Zealand at Ahmedabad in 2010.

The score of 365 is also the highest by any team in first-class cricket, where six or more batters were dismissed for a duck. The previous highest was 300, posted by Derbyshire in 2021.

The partnership between Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das was indeed unique!

Note: This article has been posted at Sportskeeda on 26/05/2022 The unique partnership between Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Chennai 1997: Saeed Anwar’s Odyssey of Mastery

Chennai, a city at the southern cusp of India, is as famed for its relentless summers as it is for its fervour for cricket. The MA Chidambaram Stadium—fondly known as Chepauk—has long stood as a coliseum where skill and grit meet trial by fire. On May 21, 1997, this crucible bore witness to a spectacle so profound that it elevated cricket to a plane of artistry and myth. Saeed Anwar of Pakistan, wielding his bat with the finesse of a maestro, delivered an innings that would not merely etch itself into the annals of cricket but linger as a touchstone of human excellence under duress. 

A Stage Set for Greatness 

The narrative unfolded against the backdrop of the Independence Cup, with India and Pakistan locked in a battle charged with both history and rivalry. Anwar, recovering from a patch of injuries that had dimmed his stellar 1996 season, appeared to carry the weight of expectation. Yet, in his walk to the crease after the early fall of Shahid Afridi, there was an aura of calm that hinted at something extraordinary in the making. 

The Indian bowling attack, a blend of raw pace and cunning spin, started with promise. The Chepauk crowd roared, buoyed by the early dismissal, but their fervor soon met its match. As Anwar took guard, his first strokes revealed a rhythmic certainty—as if the pitch, the conditions, and even the sun had conspired to amplify his brilliance. 

The Symphony Unfolds 

Anwar’s innings was not an assault but a symphony, each shot a note played with precision, elegance, and purpose. His lofted drives over the infield were not merely aggressive; they were exquisite expressions of geometry and timing. The off-drives, caressing gaps with surgical intent, were as much a product of calculation as of artistry. Every flick off his wrists seemed to transcend the boundary between technique and instinct, a masterclass in cricket's aesthetic possibilities. 

As the Chennai sun drained his physical reserves, Anwar’s resolve only seemed to deepen. Sweat streaming, his body wilting, he summoned a runner—Afridi—who now embodied Anwar’s legs as the maestro continued his virtuoso performance. This was a contest not just with the bowlers but with his own physical limits, and Anwar's will proved indomitable. 

Boundary After Boundary: The Genius in Numbers 

The brilliance of the innings lay as much in its style as in its substance. Anwar’s relentless aggression translated into 118 runs from boundaries—his bat carving the field as if reimagining its dimensions. Against Anil Kumble, India’s spin wizard, Anwar’s genius reached its zenith. In one over, he struck three sixes, each one a statement of dominance. The first soared past mid-on with savage power; the others, languid yet deliberate, were dispatches of authority and grace. 

The artistry extended even to Sachin Tendulkar’s leg breaks. A sweep to fine leg off Tendulkar was less a shot and more a caress, the ball seeming to obey a higher force dictated by Anwar’s touch. Every stroke added a layer of narrative complexity, marrying ferocity with poise, audacity with precision. 

A Record Rewritten 

The crescendo arrived when Anwar eclipsed Sir Vivian Richards’ 13-year-old record of 189 in ODIs—a mark synonymous with one-day cricket’s pantheon of greatness. The moment itself was humble: a sweep, almost matter-of-fact, yet loaded with historical weight. With it, Anwar not only rewrote the record books but also laid claim to an enduring legacy. 

The square drive that followed—decisive, imperious, and unmistakably Anwar—felt like an epilogue to a magnum opus. At 194 off 146 deliveries, his innings had ascended beyond the immediate contest. It had become a testament to cricket’s capacity for transcendence. 

The Art of Conquering 

There is a timeless allure to triumphing on foreign soil, particularly in cricket’s most storied rivalries. For Anwar, the Chennai crowd—initially hostile—became unwitting co-authors of his legend. By the end of his innings, they stood in admiration, their cheers a reluctant acknowledgement of genius. 

What made Anwar’s knock monumental was not merely its statistical brilliance but its narrative depth. It was a story of endurance, grace under pressure, and the ability to channel adversity into an exhibition of sublime skill. His bat was more than a cricketing implement; it was an instrument of transformation, elevating the game to a form of expression as nuanced and profound as poetry or painting. 

Legacy of the Maestro  

The scorecard from that day is impressive: 194 runs, 22 fours, and 5 sixes. But these numbers capture only the skeleton of Anwar’s feat. The soul of his innings lives on in the collective memory of those who watched, a reminder of what cricket can be at its finest: not just sport but art, not just competition but creation. 

In the lore of cricket, certain performances are etched in gold, not merely for their technical mastery but for their ability to inspire awe and wonder. Saeed Anwar’s day at Chepauk was such a performance—a masterpiece that will forever shimmer in the gallery of cricketing excellence.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar 

5 talking points from the first Test at Chattogram

The first Test at Chattogram between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka failed to produce a result, even though, at the start of Day 5, it seemed that Bangladesh might just set jitters in the Sri Lankan batting lineup and produce a result in favour for them. Well, the visitors held firm and neutralized the threat posed by the spinners of the home side.

Here are the 5 talking points from the first Test at Chattogram:

5. Impressive Shakib Al Hasan

Shakib Al Hasan tested positive for COVID-19 before the start of the first test and his inclusion in the team was in doubt -later on, he tested negative and had hardly any practice which would earn him the green signal to play in Chattogram. He featured in the first XI that surprised many - but when captain Mominul Haque threw the ball to Shakib, he proved what sort of a champion he is!

His accuracy, variation, and the attempted innovation to try the Chinaman, had Sri Lanka under pressure - created the platform for Nayeem Hasan to fetch wickets and provided Taijul Islam ample support on Day 5. For a cricketer whose inclusion was in doubt due to lack of enough match practice, such performance only indicates the class and temperament of Shakib.

4. Mushfiqur Rahim joins the 5000 club

Back in the summer of 2005, Bangladesh coach Dave Whatmore took the risk of unleashing a young lad named Mushfiqur Rahim. During that time, he featured as a wicketkeeper and as the time progressed, he became the lynchpin of Bangladesh’s batting lineup.

In Chattogram, he became the first-ever Bangladeshi batter to score 5000 Test runs. It was certainly a great achievement for a man whose emotional exhibitions and rush of blood received heavy criticism during the crunch moments. The little man's dedication has paid off and it is expected he will enrich his Test record in the coming days.

3. Tamim Iqbal shines with the bat

If the openers start to shine and score big; automatically, the health of the batting side improves, and at Chattogram, Tamim Iqbal followed just what the doctors ordered. He did not step back from playing his natural game and scored runs thick and fast that had the Lankan bowlers on the backfoot.

There were crispy strokes all around the ground, especially on the offside and square of the wicket. The heat took its toll on Tamim, otherwise, he would have gone on to score more.

2. Sri Lanka's fighting effort with the bat

Sri Lanka came under pressure on Day 1 and the batting lineup required someone to stand tall and guide them through the choppy waters.

Angelo Mathews decided to lead from the front and started stitching crucial partnerships with others so that the momentum did not take a setback.

He added 92 runs in a third-wicket stand with Kusal Mendis, 136 runs for the fifth-wicket with Dinesh Chandimal, and 47 valuable runs for the ninth-wicket with Vishwa Fernando.

Ultimately, he was out for 199!

In the second innings, he was out for naught but his colleagues emulated his patience and dug deep to steer the ship safely to the shore.

Sri Lanka lost six wickets for 161 with a slender lead - but Chandimal and Niroshan Dickwella put a price tag on their wickets and scripted a partnership of 99 runs for the seventh wicket and kept the Bangladeshi bowlers at bay for 203 deliveries.

The grit and determination shown in both innings should boost the morale of the side a lot and should help in Mirpur.

1. Impressive Sri Lankan pacers

The Chattogram deck was expected to aid the spinners more - the Bangladeshi spinners had a great outing where they extracted turn from the footmarks and got the flight working in favour of them, whereas the Sri Lankan spinners failed to achieve the same from the third and fourth-day deck where there was still enough for the spinners.

The Lankans experienced a setback after losing left-arm pacer Vishwa Fernando due to a concussion injury but his replacement, Kasun Rajitha, proved to be a blessing in disguise.

He returned to the team after a brief gap and made an immediate impact by bowling with enough discipline. His bowling was encouraging enough to inspire Asitha Fernando, who decided to bowl aggressively and pepper the Bangladeshi batter with short-pitch stuff.

With the sun becking down over the MA Azis Stadium and the spinners failing to achieve anything productive, Fernando ran with aggressive intent and sent down rip-snoters that had the Bangladeshi batters on the rope.

Rajitha and Fernando shared 7 wickets in between them.

Sri Lanka might be planning for a spin-oriented attack in Mirpur, but they need to rethink their pacers who impressed a lot at Chattogram and tested Bangladesh batters with accuracy, movement, pace and bounce.

Fernando and Rajitha could be highly productive in Mirpur.

Note: This article has been published at Cricketsoccer on 19/05/2022 5 talking points from the first Test at Chattogram

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Alchemy of a Moment: Zidane’s Masterpiece in Glasgow

In sports, there are moments that transcend the routine ebb and flow of competition. These moments are not planned, nor can they be replicated, no matter how many times an athlete revisits them in training. They emerge in the rarest of circumstances, gifted by those who possess an ineffable brilliance—magicians who, with a single gesture, inscribe themselves into the pantheon of their sport.

Zinedine Zidane once reflected on one such moment:

"I tried to score the same way again later, even during shooting an advertisement. But it never happened again. Never. I tried in training, but it never happened. It was perfect the day it happened."

The night was May 15, 2002, and the stage was Hampden Park, Glasgow—a venue steeped in European football history, where Real Madrid met Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Champions League final. This wasn’t just another football match; it was a carnival of the beautiful game. The grandeur of the occasion attracted not only fans but also royalty, political figures, and legends of the sport—King Juan Carlos of Spain, German Vice-Chancellor Joschka Fischer, and even the enigmatic Sir Sean Connery were present in the stands, along with luminaries like Michel Platini, Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsène Wenger, and Fabio Capello.

Yet, amid this confluence of dignitaries, past champions, and footballing icons, the spotlight would soon be seized by Zidane in a moment that defied description, logic, and replication.

The Contest: Leverkusen vs. Real Madrid

On paper, Madrid were the favorites, but Klaus Toppmöller’s Bayer Leverkusen were no pushovers. With players like Michael Ballack, Lucio, Bernd Schneider, and Dimitar Berbatov, they had navigated Europe’s toughest opponents to reach this final. Real Madrid, despite their star-studded lineup, were coming off a turbulent domestic season—third in La Liga, losses to Deportivo La Coruña in both the league and Copa del Rey final, and questions surrounding their form.

Zidane, playing his first season at the Bernabéu, was chasing redemption. Twice before, he had tasted defeat in Champions League finals with Juventus. This time, the stakes were higher—Madrid's legacy and Zidane’s desire to write his own chapter on Europe’s grandest stage.

The match began with a lively atmosphere as the fans from Madrid, Leverkusen, and Glasgow filled the city with music, chants, and a celebratory spirit. Early on, Real took the lead through Raúl, only for Lucio to level minutes later, keeping the tension alive. The first half ebbed and flowed but lacked genuine spark, with both sides probing but failing to land decisive blows. Then, just as the game seemed to drift towards halftime, the universe conspired to create something extraordinary.

The Setup: A Looping Cross, a Waiting Magician

Football’s finest moments often hinge on an unassuming buildup—an overlooked run, an unnoticed gap in the defense, or, in this case, a looping cross. On the left flank, Roberto Carlos found space and quickly combined with Santiago Solari, whose clever movement drew Bayer full-back Zoltán Sebescen out of position. In a flash, Carlos surged forward, leaving Sebescen trailing, and delivered a looping cross towards the center.

It was not a perfect pass, by conventional standards. The ball arced awkwardly, almost teasingly, as it hung in the air—a challenge rather than a gift. But Zidane, with the composure of an artist waiting for the right stroke, knew better than to rush. As the ball dropped from the night sky, Zidane adjusted his position, calculated the angle, and prepared for the improbable.

The Moment: A Volley for Eternity

Time seemed to freeze. As the ball descended, Zidane’s left foot swung in a movement both fluid and mechanical, like a brushstroke in a masterpiece. His body, mid-air, formed a Z-shaped silhouette—a poetic coincidence—while Michael Ballack sprinted desperately behind him, a step too late to intervene.

The ball connected with Zidane’s volley at the sweet spot, and for an instant, the stadium held its breath. It was not brute force but perfect precision—velocity, technique, and instinct converging to create something that seemed less a goal and more an act of divine artistry. The ball soared past goalkeeper Hans-Jörg Butt, who could only watch helplessly as it nestled into the top corner.

It was a one-in-a-million moment—impossible to replicate, untouchable by markers, tactics, or even luck. Not even the world’s finest goalkeeper or the most impenetrable defense could have stopped that strike. Zidane’s volley was more than just a goal; it was the embodiment of genius, the culmination of talent honed over a lifetime, expressed in one fleeting second.

The Aftermath: Glory Sealed

In the second half, both sides continued to press. Fernando Morientes came close twice for Madrid, while Leverkusen mounted their own assaults, with Dimitar Berbatov and Yildiray Bastürk forcing saves from a young Iker Casillas, who replaced the injured César Sánchez. But the night belonged to Zidane and his volley, a moment so perfect it rendered the rest of the match almost irrelevant.

When the final whistle blew, Real Madrid had secured their ninth Champions League title—a feat that solidified their reputation as Europe’s premier club. For Zidane, the triumph was not just a personal vindication but also a fulfillment of his purpose at Madrid. He had come to the Bernabéu to win big, and in Glasgow, he did so with a flourish that would forever remain etched in football’s collective memory.

The Legacy: A Goal for the Ages

As the dust settled, those in attendance knew they had witnessed something beyond mere sport. Sir Alex Ferguson, who later described Zidane’s goal as "an art form," encapsulated what every football lover—Madridista or not—felt in that moment.

Such moments elevate sports to the realm of mythology. They are rare gifts, bestowed only by the most extraordinary athletes. Zidane’s volley at Hampden Park remains one of those gifts, a fragment of footballing perfection that lives on, not just in highlight reels, but in the imagination of every fan who dreams of magic on the pitch.

Because, in the end, that is what Zidane did—he turned a mundane cross into magic, a night in Glasgow into legend, and a goal into a moment that, even if tried a thousand times over, could never be repeated.

"Any football lover, not just Madridistas, would have enjoyed that goal," reflected Raúl years later.

And perhaps that is the true essence of sports—those singular moments, gifted by its magicians, that make us believe in the impossible.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar 

BAN vs SL Test series: Bangladesh enter as favorites against beleaguered Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka are set to start their away two-match Test series against Bangladesh on Sunday, May 15. While cricket is the focus for fans, the nation of Sri Lanka and its people need our prayers and support. The island nation and its cricketers have been an integral part of the colourful tapestry of this sport.

The Sri Lankan cricket team has also been going through a tough transition period in recent years. The kind of situation their country is facing - it is never easy to focus on other things.

Bangladesh look to regain form after disappointing South African tour

Unlike most previous tours, the hosts would start as the favourites for the upcoming Test series. The biggest reason is them playing at home. Also, most of their key players are available. Most importantly, it's the way the Tigers played in New Zealand and South Africa that gives them the edge over the visitors.

The worries over Shakib Al Hasan's participation have ebbed away after his COVID-19 report came negative. But the head coach, Russell Domingo, told the reporters that he would like to ponder over the inclusion of Shakib as there might be a fitness issue!

When it comes to the bowling department, Taskin Ahmed has been the most improved customer for Bangladesh in recent years. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, on the other hand, has been productive with both bat and the ball.

Sadly, Bangladesh would be without the services of both due to fitness problems. Yet, they have the bench strength to overcome these blows.

Ebadot Hossain, Shoriful Islam, and Khaled Ahmed will be there for the home side. The responsibility of leading the spin attack will fall on Taijul Islam who has been absolutely brilliant on home pitches.

But the kind of pacers Bangladesh have, it would be ideal for them to place their faith in seamers. Especially, with someone like Allan Donald around, relying on spinners would not help them build the sort of pace bowling unit that flourished under Chandika Hathurusingha.

Donald is emphasizing on bowling the old ball more because that is when a pace bowler faces his toughest test.

In an interaction with the reporters, Donald said:

"The biggest thing here is the old-ball bowling. Today (May 12, 2022) was all about old ball. Every training session I have emphasized a lot on getting the ball to reverse and be really patient and creative with the old ball. I don't have to tell these kids about bowling in their conditions. They know what to expect. But the overall patience, persistence, and creativity that we bring is going to be testing."

Bangladesh do have the intent and spirit among the bowlers - but the temperament of the batters remains a matter of worry. The Tigers' batting clicked in the first Test against New Zealand and it boosted the confidence of the bowlers.

It led to a historic win. But since then, the batting unit has been fragile and in the last Test series against South Africa, they faced great embarrassment at the hands of Proteas' spinners.

Sri Lanka under new coaching regime

Sri Lanka don't have the luxury of having Dushmanta Chameera, Lahiru Kumara, or recently retired Suranga Lakmal. Still, the newly-appointed head coach Chris Silverwood expressed his confidence with the young pacers.

He also has the help of assistant coach Naveed Nawaz who has the experience of working with the Bangladesh Under-19 side. Silverwood may be the head coach but Nawaz is a master tactician and can help the team play as a cohesive unit in such testing times.

Nawaz, who achieved a great deal with the Bangladesh Under-19 unit a few years ago, would also look after the batting. He is known not just as a technical coach but as someone who deals with the players as a friend so that they can express themselves freely.

While speaking to reporters, Nawaz said,

"I want the Sri Lankan flair, I want the boys to express themselves. I don't want them to be anybody else, I want them to be themselves and fly the flag for Sri Lanka."

Nawaz is confident and his determination was palpable. The Lankans know that they are the underdogs and when a team is cornered, they can become more dangerous. Bangladesh should not take Sri Lanka lightly.

Note: This article has been posted at Sportskeeda on 13/05/2022 BAN vs SL Test series: Bangladesh enter as favorites against beleaguered Sri Lanka

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The appointment of Brendon McCullum as England Test team's head coach is an exciting gamble

Change requires taking a risk and when you do, you discover what dynamism is and rediscover passion in a new way. Again, when you choose to play cricket in an aggressive fashion, you end up learning so many things. In fact, such an approach becomes the foundation for a better tomorrow.

Team India under Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri could be a very good example, while Bangladesh under Chandika Hathurusingha's guidance hinted of becoming the next big thing in world cricket. No one could forget how Brendon McCullum changed the face of New Zealand in world cricket.

For the last couple of years, England's fortunes in Test cricket have been frustrating and there have not been several efforts to satisfy the fans and critics. Still, the English think tank kept their faith in captain Joe Root and coach Chris Silverwood. But nothing changed and their respective roles came to a sad end along with the team director, Ashley Giles.

England are considering an overall change in the team and they started off with the appointment of former England batter and television commentator Rob Key as the managing director of the England cricket team and Ben Stokes as the skipper of the Test side.

Now, it was time to appoint a coach and they ended up shaking hands with a New Zealander, who was extremely popular as a cricketer during his playing days but has hardly any coaching experience in the longer format. He is none other than Brendon McCullum.

With the more experienced Gary Kirsten also in the running, the appointment of McCullum has come as a surprise to many.

Perhaps England are looking for someone who would act as a perfect foil to Stokes' aggression and instill the fearsome brand of cricket which is badly needed at the moment.

One cannot forget how McCullum changed the style of New Zealand despite a scratchy start back in 2013. A few years later, the world witnessed how he formed a cocktail of all-action, high-octane cricket, and great sportsmanship that not only entertained everyone but earned respect and accolades at the same time.

McCullum's dynamism became a role model for many, and Eoin Morgan was the one who was inspired and tried his best to shape the England ODI team in that way. Since 2015, England's approach to white-ball cricket has been a revolution.

However, captaining and coaching a team is different and there is no guarantee that McCullum - who has the experience of managing teams in the Twenty20 Franchise Leagues - will reap a rich harvest as the head coach in the longer formats.

Keeping that in mind, McCullum's appointment is an exciting gamble.

This appointment is based on McCullum's vast experience in the international arena and his influence as a leader. The man possesses a dynamic personality and developing a winning culture within the team via an aggressive brand of cricket is his specialty.

When he replaced Ross Taylor as the skipper back in 2013, New Zealand were steamrolled in South Africa, and immediately, McCullum decided to chalk out the problems within the team that was not playing as a team and suffering from self-belief.

It was important to bring back the passion for the game and fall in love with it again and only then can the Kiwis rediscover themselves.

The team as a whole started to love cricket as a school kid would love his cricket kit and spending the morning and afternoon on the field - it worked and sowed the seeds for the future.

England are thinking that McCullum might be the missing piece of the puzzle that they are looking for and he might be the one who could turn things around.

Note: This article has been published at Sportskeeda on 13/05/2022 The appointment of Brendon McCullum as England Test team's head coach is an exciting gamble

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Glimmers of Greatness: Mohammad Ashraful’s Masterclass and the Eternal Struggle of Bangladeshi Cricket

Next week, Chattogram will again become the battleground for Bangladesh and Sri Lanka as the two nations lock horns in the ICC World Test Championship. The anticipation is heavy, rooted in history and tinged with memories of battles past. Since their first meeting in the 2001 Asian Test Championship, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have shared a rivalry marked not by parity but by persistence — Bangladesh, still finding their feet in Test cricket, and Sri Lanka, a well-established force at the time. The story of these matches is often one of valiant attempts punctuated by occasional brilliance.  

And among those moments of brilliance, Mohammad Ashraful’s iconic 136 against Sri Lanka at Chattogram in 2006 stands tall—a spellbinding performance that epitomized both the promise and frustration of Bangladeshi cricket. 

The Bogra Beginning and MA Aziz’s Legacy

When the Lankans toured Bangladesh in 2006 for a bilateral series, the Tigers hoped to build on recent improvements under coach Dav Whatmore. Despite a morale-boosting ODI victory at Bogra—their first against Sri Lanka—the real challenge was always going to be the longer format.  

The second Test at Chattogram brought both nations to the historic MA Aziz Stadium, a venue not just beloved for cricket but symbolic of the city’s role in Bangladesh’s struggle for independence in 1971. In earlier decades, this very ground welcomed legends like India’s Vinoo Mankad and England’s MCC under Donald Carr. It was also where Bangladesh clinched their first-ever Test victory in 2005, after 34 painful attempts—a venue where history whispers from the stands.

But as the two teams clashed in 2006, history didn’t seem to favor the hosts. After a comprehensive loss in the first Test at Bogra, expectations from the home crowd were tempered. Yet, this was cricket—fickle, full of surprises, where individual genius can change the course of a match, if only for a fleeting moment.

Ashraful’s Arrival: A Symphony of Strokes

Bangladesh’s innings began on a cautious note. Habibul Bashar, the skipper, elected to bat first, aware that the early morning breeze off the Bay of Bengal would offer assistance to seamers. And seamers Lasith Malinga and Farveez Maharoof did not disappoint. Malinga, with his trademark slinging action, struck in the opening exchanges to dismiss Javed Omar.  

Opener Nafees Iqbal and Captain Bashar then forged a steady partnership, weathering the storm for a while. But as so often with Bangladesh, their solidity was fleeting. Wickets began to tumble. And then, the young Mohammad Ashraful strode to the crease.  

From the moment Ashraful took his stance, something felt different. On his second delivery, he leaned into a cover drive off Malinga Bandara—a stroke so elegantly timed that even the fielders paused to admire it. As his innings unfolded, it became clear that Ashraful wasn’t just batting; he was composing a masterpiece. His first boundary—a stylish late cut to third man—set the tone for a knock that was equal parts artistry and audacity.  

Facing the wily Muttiah Muralitharan at the other end, Ashraful displayed a poise that belied his years. He navigated the maestro’s off-breaks with nimble footwork, choosing discretion over recklessness—at least initially. When Murali tossed one up temptingly, Ashraful resisted the urge to slog, instead stroking a delicate glance to the fine-leg boundary. It was an innings defined by balance—between caution and aggression, between elegance and power.  

The Turning of the Tide: A Solo Act Amidst Collapse

As wickets crumbled at the other end, Ashraful shifted gears. He knew that waiting for partners to build meaningful stands was a futile hope. So, he transformed the innings into a counterattack. His reverse sweeps off Murali were not just effective but cheekily defiant, while his six off Bandara symbolized a fearless batsman at the peak of his powers. Against Dilhara Fernando, he stood tall, sending a delivery over backward point for six—an exhibition of confidence that few Bangladeshi batters of the era possessed.  

With each stroke, Ashraful gave Bangladesh hope, even if only briefly. His bat was not just a weapon; it was a wand, casting spells that charmed the crowd and momentarily paralyzed the Sri Lankan attack. For 184 deliveries, he carried his side on his slender shoulders, scoring 136 runs laced with 15 boundaries and 3 sixes. And yet, like all good things in Bangladeshi cricket, it didn’t last.  

Attempting a slog-sweep off Murali, Ashraful mistimed the shot, holing out to Dilhara Fernando at deep midwicket. It was the kind of dismissal that defined him—brilliant, bold, but tragically impatient. Once again, his inability to temper talent with discipline had cost him and his team.  

The Tale of Two Ashrafuls: Genius and Flaws in Equal Measure

Ashraful’s innings was a microcosm of Bangladesh’s cricketing journey—bursting with promise, dazzling in moments, but undone by inconsistency. The sheer beauty of his stroke play raised expectations, yet his dismissal embodied the frustration that has haunted Bangladesh cricket. He was not just a player; he was a symbol of what the nation’s cricket could be—if only brilliance could be sustained.  

His failure to replicate the magic in the second innings, dismissed cheaply for 1, was a sobering reminder that cricket is as much about consistency as it is about moments of genius. Bangladesh eventually folded for 181, setting Sri Lanka a modest target, which they chased down with ease. The visitors left victorious, but Ashraful’s innings lingered in the memory—a bittersweet performance that hinted at a future never fully realized.

Legacy of the Knock: Hope Amid Defeat 

Despite the loss, there was a silver lining. Ashraful’s innings was a beacon for a young team trying to find its identity in the Test arena. For a brief moment, he bridged the gap between what Bangladesh was and what it aspired to be—a competitive Test side that could stand toe-to-toe with the best.  

The performance at Chattogram gave the fans a reason to dream, even if the dream was fragile. It showcased what was possible when individual brilliance aligned with opportunity. The tragedy of Mohammad Ashraful’s career is not that he lacked talent, but that the brilliance he exhibited was often fleeting—flashes of light in a sky that too often remained overcast.

Epilogue: The Eternal Quest for Stability

As Bangladesh and Sri Lanka prepare to meet again at Chattogram next week, the echoes of that 2006 Test resonate. The stadium, rich in history, will once more witness a contest where the stakes are high. The fans will hope for a repeat of Ashraful’s brilliance—only this time, tempered by the maturity that comes with experience.  

For Bangladeshi cricket, the journey continues. And with every boundary, every dismissal, and every cheer from the stands, the ghosts of past glories and disappointments will dance in the background—reminding players and fans alike that in cricket, as in life, brilliance must be matched by resolve.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Kerry Packer and the Revolution of World Series Cricket

The cricketing world, steeped in tradition and bound by rigid structures, was jolted to its core in May 1977. Kerry Packer, a formidable Australian media mogul, announced the creation of a parallel cricketing spectacle, World Series Cricket (WSC). This audacious endeavour was not merely a new tournament; it was a direct challenge to the hegemony of the cricketing establishment, an act of rebellion that would irrevocably alter the sport.

The Genesis of a Revolution

The seeds of this upheaval were sown in frustration. Packer's bid to secure television rights for his Channel Nine network was dismissed by the Australian Cricket Board (ACB), which clung to its longstanding allegiance with the state-run Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). Denied a seat at the table, Packer decided to build his own. Armed with financial muscle and a vision for modernizing cricket, he sought to lure the sport's brightest stars with contracts that far outstripped the meagre earnings offered by traditional cricket boards.

Through the latter half of 1976 and early 1977, Packer, with the help of key figures like Tony Greig and Ian Chappell, orchestrated a clandestine recruitment drive. By the time the news broke on May 9, 1977, an astounding 13 of Australia's 17 Ashes squad members had signed up, along with numerous players from around the world. The establishment's response was vitriolic: players were vilified, some banned, and the integrity of the sport was questioned. WSC was quickly dubbed "Packer's Circus," a term dripping with disdain yet indicative of its disruptive allure.

The Clash of Ideologies

The conflict between Packer and the International Cricket Council (ICC) was not merely about contracts or control—it was a collision of ideologies. The cricketing establishment, symbolized by its bureaucratic inertia, represented a bygone era, while Packer embodied the unapologetic dynamism of modern capitalism. His public relations acumen and the charismatic support of figures like Richie Benaud painted him not as cricket’s nemesis but as its potential saviour.

When negotiations between Packer and the ICC collapsed in June 1977, the stage was set for open warfare. Packer's subsequent declaration, "It's every man for himself and the devil take the hindmost," was both a rallying cry and a gauntlet thrown at the feet of tradition. The ICC responded by deeming WSC matches unofficial and banning participating players from first-class cricket. However, Packer's legal counterattack culminated in a landmark High Court victory in November 1977, affirming the players' right to earn a livelihood. The judgment struck a blow to the establishment’s authority and underscored the changing tides of professional sport.

Innovation Amidst Controversy

Despite initial setbacks, including poor attendance and logistical hurdles, Packer's vision began to take shape. With no access to traditional cricket grounds, he introduced "drop-in" pitches at unconventional venues, a radical innovation that silenced sceptics. The shift from Supertests to one-day matches, coupled with the advent of day-night games under floodlights, captured the public’s imagination. Packer’s relentless marketing, emphasising spectacle, aggression, and star power, redefined cricket's aesthetic and broadened its appeal.

However, WSC’s emphasis on aggressive fast bowling and power-hitting drew criticism for sidelining spinners and technically proficient batsmen. The relentless bouncer barrages, epitomized by David Hookes’ harrowing injury, precipitated the widespread adoption of protective helmets, marking a turning point in player safety.

The Tides of Change

By the 1978-79 season, the balance of power had shifted. Official cricket struggled to compete with WSC’s polished presentation and growing popularity. The media, once aligned with the establishment, began championing Packer’s cause. Spectacular attendances at WSC matches, such as the floodlit encounter at the Sydney Cricket Ground, underscored the burgeoning cultural resonance of Packer's format.

The Australian Cricket Board (ACB), financially drained and struggling for relevance, capitulated in May 1979. The truce granted Packer a ten-year deal to promote and broadcast cricket, a tacit acknowledgement of his triumph. The sport's traditional custodians had been forced to adapt, integrating Packer’s innovations into their framework. Day-night matches, coloured clothing, and enhanced marketing became staples of the game, heralding a new era.

A Lasting Legacy

While the immediate fallout included strained relations and lingering resentments, the broader impact of Packer’s rebellion was transformative. He elevated players from underpaid artisans to well-compensated professionals and reimagined cricket as an entertainment product for a global audience. The uneasy peace forged in 1979 marked not the end of a conflict but the dawn of a symbiotic relationship between commerce and sport.

Packer’s legacy is a testament to the power of vision and audacity. World Series Cricket was a disruption and a redefinition of the sport’s identity. In challenging the old order, Packer compelled cricket to evolve, ensuring its survival in an increasingly competitive and commercialized world.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Another miracle orchestrated by Real Madrid

Real Madrid were out of the Champions League after being beaten by an English club yet again - that was the thought that prevailed among the spectators present at Bernabeu and billions of viewers watching on television. Manchester City would play in the final at Paris and of course, they would be favourties to win the title for the first time. 

But wait - Real Madrid are playing a different game this season - they are on a mission to orchestrate miracles and when each and every heart of Madridistas stopped, they gave the DC shock to stabilize the cardiovascular system. 

Real Madrid won. 

Yet another heartbreak for Pep Guardiola and Manchester City. 

This was simply a devastating defeat for Manchester City. Not just its consequence but its manner. For Real Madrid, this was not a comeback but a resurrection. It was on the scale of Manchester United in Nou Camp, 1999. Madrid were 5-3 down on aggregate going into the final minute of normal time; and 6-5 up five minutes into the extra time that resulted from their incredible feat of resistance. It was the first time they had led across the two entire-ties: the 185th minute of the match.

 A minute before Real Madrid scored, Jack Grealish, on as a substitute had two chances to put the outcome beyond doubt. The first was cleared off the line, the second sent wide by the merest touch from Thibaut Courtois in goal. And then they were out, gone. They had silenced the Bernabeu, the game was as good as won. And then it wasn’t.

Real Madrid won by virtue of their never say die attitude. 

This was a heroic display of fortitude, wrested from City by two goals from substitute Rodrygo. Coming on for Toni Kroos with the game goalless he was inspired. One goal in the final minute for what looked to be a footnote consolation, then a minute later to turn the tie on its head. City were stunned. They had been the better side for almost all of this encounter.  

Karim Benzema kept quiet for most of the night and hooked a volleyed cross from the left side of the penalty area for Rodrygo’s first – Ederson was beaten to the ball by his outstretched foot. For the second Marco Asensio flicked on Dani Carvajal’s cross and the Brazilian forward rose above a now rattled defence and sent his header past Ederson.  

Worse was to come. 

Extra time had barely started when Ruben Dias went in clumsily on Benzema, and Italian referee Daniele Orsato pointed to the penalty spot. By now, City were in shock and disarray; Madrid the swaggering gods of the Champions League. And no Panenka for Benzema this time. Nothing clever or fancy. He struck it low to Ederson’s left, giving him no chance. There was barely a peep out of City after that. They were done.

The night belonged to the spirited boys of Carlo Ancelotti. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar