Bangladesh Triumphs in Rawalpindi: A Historic Win Amid Political Turmoil and Tragedy

The political landscape in Bangladesh has rarely resembled a calm river, especially over the past 15 years under a repressive regime. Protests and chaos have become almost normative, with student demands—such as those surrounding the controversial quota system—often dismissed as fleeting moments. However, the situation escalated violently following inflammatory remarks from former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, revealing the deep-seated tensions within the country.

Under Hasina’s directives, law enforcement and factions of the Awami League pointed weapons at peaceful protesters, leading to horrific bloodshed that did not even spare a four-year-old child. The violence persisted until early August when the Bangladesh Army intervened in a bid for peace. Ultimately, Hasina fled to India, and on August 5, 2024, Bangladeshis took to the streets, celebrating their newfound independence after a prolonged period of oppression.

Tragically, reports indicate that between July 16 and August 16, 2024, 624 lives were lost—354 before Hasina’s resignation, with 66 of the deceased being children. A United Nations investigation later confirmed that at least 650 people had been killed, with over 20,000 injured and more than 11,000 arrested across the nation. The gruesome imagery shared on social media after a seven-day internet blackout left the populace stunned, exposing the brutal reality of Hasina’s regime. The names of martyrs—Abu Sayed, Mir Mugdho, Shaykh Ashhabul Yamin, and others—became synonymous with the struggle against tyranny.

While some Awami League supporters remained silent amidst the massacre, a larger segment joined the student-led movement, ultimately propelling the quest for freedom forward. The struggle for democracy has never been easy in Bangladesh, especially with fascist elements attempting counter-revolutions and external supporters rallying behind the oppressive regime. Compounding the nation’s struggles, a devastating flash flood struck, triggered by the opening of the Damburu Dam in Tripura.

Against this chaotic backdrop, the Bangladesh Cricket Team embarked on a bilateral series in Pakistan. The nation, preoccupied with aiding flood victims, paid little heed to the cricketing spectacle. Yet, amid turmoil, the team displayed remarkable resilience. On Day 1, after a delayed start due to wet conditions, the Bangladeshi bowlers initially had the Pakistani batsmen on the ropes. However, the home side eventually countered, declaring their innings with a strong performance.

By Day 3, Shadman Islam’s patient 93 laid the groundwork, supported by half-centuries from Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Litton Das. Bangladesh entered the final stretch at 132 runs adrift of Pakistan’s first innings total, with Mushfiqur and Litton forming a crucial partnership. On Day 4, Mushfiqur’s masterful 191 shifted the momentum, showcasing a blend of caution and aggression that was essential for a team still recovering from the July atrocities.

The pitch at Rawalpindi, predictably flat, suggested a dull draw. Yet the Bangladeshi pacers, along with spinners Mehidy Hasan Miraz and the controversial Shakib Al Hasan—who faced scrutiny for his past political affiliations—turned the tables against the odds. Hasan Mahmud applied relentless pressure, while Nahid Rana’s express pace jolted the Pakistani lineup. Shakib and Miraz exploited the conditions expertly, with the spinners posting remarkable figures: Mehidy claimed 5 for 101, and Shakib took 4 for 144.

In a historic turn of events, Bangladesh bowled Pakistan out cheaply, requiring just 30 runs for a momentous victory. Zakir Hasan and Shadman Islam sealed the win, with Zakir striking the winning runs, making history as Pakistan faced a ten-wicket defeat at home in a Test match for the first time.

In a poignant gesture, Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain dedicated the victory to the martyrs of the July Massacre. Before the Test, he expressed confidence, stating, “Records can change. It won't be easy for Pakistan. We have a balanced side. We believe we can do special things this time.” Indeed, the records shifted as the Bangladeshi flag soared high in Rawalpindi, symbolizing a nation's resilience.

Focusing on cricket amid such turmoil was a monumental challenge, yet the Tigers channelled their adversities into motivation, determined to uplift a nation still grappling with the aftermath of political upheaval and natural disasters. This victory was not merely a sporting triumph; it represented a collective sigh of relief, a moment of hope, and a reaffirmation of the spirit of a nation that had endured much but refused to be subdued.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

 

 

Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das: Architects of a Historic Comeback

On Day 1 of the second Test between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, the Mirpur crowd witnessed a remarkable tale of resilience and grit. As Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das joined forces at the crease, Bangladesh's hopes seemed buried under the rubble of a catastrophic start. The duo, however, turned the tide in a fashion reminiscent of the legendary Wallis Mathias and Shujauddin, who orchestrated a similar rescue act for Pakistan against the West Indies in Dhaka back in 1959.

A Precarious Beginning

Bangladesh's innings began under ominous clouds, not of weather but of expectation and fragility. Kasun Rajitha and Asitha Fernando, exploiting the early assistance from the pitch, delivered a devastating opening salvo. Within seven overs, the scoreboard read a dismal 24/5. Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Nazmul Hasan Shanto, Shakib Al Hasan, Tamim Iqbal, and Mominul Haque all fell prey to incisive seam bowling. Rajitha's precision and Fernando's sharp movement left Bangladesh teetering on the brink of humiliation.

The Context: Pressure on Mushfiqur and Litton

Mushfiqur Rahim entered the series under immense scrutiny. His recent scores—5, 48, 12, 5, 7, 0, 51, and 1—painted the picture of a batter struggling to find his rhythm. Criticized for his shot selection and emotional outbursts, Mushfiqur needed a performance that would reaffirm his status as Bangladesh's premier batter.

Litton Das, too, bore the brunt of public ire. Once derided by fans and even mocked by corporate advertisements, he had recently emerged as Bangladesh's most improved batter. With his technique and temperament honed over the past year, Litton was ready to silence his detractors.

The Partnership: A Study in Contrasts

Faced with adversity, Mushfiqur and Litton crafted a partnership that was as much about survival as it was about dominance. Mushfiqur anchored one end with stoic determination, curbing his penchant for risky strokes like the reverse sweep. Litton, on the other hand, counterattacked with flair, forcing Sri Lankan skipper Dimuth Karunaratne to adopt defensive field placements.

The duo saw off the new ball, blunting the seamers' early threat. After lunch, Litton showcased his mastery against short-pitched bowling, repeatedly pulling and cutting Fernando with authority. Against spin, he was equally commanding, driving and sweeping with precision. Mushfiqur, meanwhile, grew in confidence, stepping out to punish overpitched deliveries and rotating the strike with ease.

Records Tumble

Their partnership of 272 runs for the sixth wicket became a landmark in Test cricket. It was the highest stand ever recorded after a team had lost five wickets for 25 runs or fewer. Litton’s 141, a masterpiece of controlled aggression, was the highest score by a number seven batter in such dire circumstances, surpassing Moin Khan’s 117 against Sri Lanka in 1995.

Mushfiqur’s innings, a masterclass in endurance and technique, culminated in an unbeaten 175. His partnership with Taijul Islam added a further 49 runs, frustrating Sri Lanka’s bowlers and pushing Bangladesh to a total of 365. This score set a new record as the highest by any team in first-class cricket where six or more batters were dismissed for ducks. The previous best was Derbyshire's 300 in 2021.

A Comeback for the Ages

Bangladesh’s performance was not merely a statistical marvel but a testament to the indomitable spirit of its players. The innings transformed a potential debacle into a story of resilience, skill, and determination. Mushfiqur’s disciplined approach and Litton’s audacious strokeplay complemented each other perfectly, creating a blueprint for batting under pressure.

As the Mirpur crowd erupted in applause, the partnership between Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das etched itself into the annals of cricketing history. It was not just a fightback; it was a statement. Bangladesh, a team often familiar with the sting of collapse, had turned despair into triumph, proving once again that in cricket, as in life, comebacks are always possible.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Resilience of Bangladesh: A Literary Analysis of an Epic Cricket Encounter

Amid an oppressive heatwave blanketing Dhaka, life has seemingly come to a standstill, leaving its citizens yearning for a reprieve from the sweltering humidity. As rain played a coy game of hide-and-seek in England, stifling the World Cup festivities, the people of Bangladesh turned their eyes skyward, pleading for the clouds to deliver their long-awaited blessing. It appeared that the Almighty, in His infinite wisdom, was testing the patience of the Bangladeshi populace, reserving a special gift for an occasion steeped in significance.

The sun finally emerged in Taunton, England, where a fervent congregation of Bangladesh cricket fans gathered, ready to rally behind their beloved Tigers as they faced the West Indies in a match of paramount importance. Following two back-to-back defeats, the weight of expectation hung heavy on their shoulders; the very existence of the team seemed threatened. Yet, their recent successes against the Caribbeans offered a glimmer of hope, suggesting that redemption was within reach.

A Gamble on the Toss

Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, the captain, won the toss and opted to field first. This decision, while courageous, raised eyebrows, especially in light of the recent outcomes of other matches. The pitch at Taunton promised to slow down as the day progressed, and with formidable opponents like Gabriel, Thomas, Cottrell, and Holder on the other side, batting first appeared to be a more prudent choice. Historically, teams batting first had enjoyed greater success in this tournament, adding weight to the argument against the Tigers' decision.

However, despite the initial setbacks as West Indian batsmen attacked with reckless abandon in the middle overs, Bangladesh exhibited commendable composure. They tightened their grip, showcasing excellent fielding, and succeeded in keeping the West Indies to a challenging total of just under 350 runs. While the target was daunting, the mindset of the Bangladeshi batsmen had undergone a transformation. Their recent victories against the Caribbeans instilled a newfound confidence, suggesting that they could tackle the challenges ahead with resilience.

The Invincible Shakib Al Hasan

Amidst the ups and downs of the innings, the spotlight shone brightly on Shakib Al Hasan. After the early dismissals of Tamim Iqbal and Mushfiqur Rahim, it was the relatively overlooked Liton Kumar Das who partnered with Shakib, igniting the innings. Shakib’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary; he appeared as if he had descended from the heavens, embodying an indomitable spirit that whispered, "Impossible is Nothing." 

Shakib’s approach to the game reflects the essence of a flawed genius: he embraces risks, exploring the boundaries of possibility with audacity. Like Cristiano Ronaldo in football, he challenges conventions, showcasing a unique style that leaves spectators in awe. His strokes were a masterclass in timing and placement, as he expertly dispatched short-pitched deliveries and crafted elegant shots through the covers. His wrists and forearms seemed to wield an almost mythical power, transforming each strike into art.

The Class of Liton Kumar Das

Alongside Shakib, Liton Kumar Das emerged as a revelation. His talent had often been overshadowed by criticism, but in Taunton, he seized the opportunity to shine. Displaying a remarkable command over backfoot play, Liton sent cannonballs soaring into the stratosphere, crafting an electrifying innings of 94 runs off just 69 balls. His partnership with Shakib, a remarkable 189 runs for the fourth wicket, anchored Bangladesh’s chase.

Shakib completed his second consecutive century of the tournament—a feat devoid of sixes but adorned with 16 exquisite boundaries and exceptional strike rotation. Together, they not only secured victory but also etched their names in the annals of World Cup history as Bangladesh became the first team ever to chase a target of over 300 runs with more than 50 balls to spare.

A Celestial Celebration

As the duo led Bangladesh towards a glorious triumph, dark clouds gathered ominously over Dhaka. The heavens seemed to echo the triumphant roars of the Tigers, and soon, rain cascaded down, soothing the parched city. In this moment of catharsis, the people of Dhaka celebrated the monumental victory, grateful for the dual blessing of rain and sport.

In the grand tapestry of cricket, such moments are woven with threads of resilience, hope, and joy. The Almighty indeed saves the best gifts for special occasions, and on this day, the people of Bangladesh revelled not just in victory but in a deeper connection to their team's spirit—a spirit that rises from the ashes, embodies defiance, and forever believes that the impossible can be achieved.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar  

Liton Kumar Das: A Beacon of Resilience in Bangladesh's Struggle Against South Africa

The rain-delayed second day of the Test match saw the sun finally shine over the Manuang Oval Cricket Ground in Bloemfontein, but for Bangladesh, the day began in familiar frustration. South Africa’s Hashim Amla and Faf du Plessis, with their trademark class and effortless elegance, cruised to centuries, piling more pressure on Bangladesh’s beleaguered captain, Mushfiqur Rahim. Despite Rahim’s best efforts to curb the runs through defensive tactics, Amla and du Plessis's steady accumulation of runs highlighted the gap in quality, as Faf declared at a dominant 573 for 4.

In an unexpected turn, the injured Imrul Kayes took to the field, opening with Soumya Sarkar. Yet the early South African bowlers, led by Kagiso Rabada, Duanne Olivier, and Wayne Parnell, shattered Bangladesh’s top order with clinical precision. At 65 for 6, the collapse seemed inevitable, and a humiliating defeat loomed large. It was in this moment of despair that Liton Kumar Das emerged, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the wreckage of his team’s failing batting line-up.

Liton Kumar Das: A Moment of Resilience

The situation was dire. Soumya was dismissed cheaply, Mominul was caught behind, and Mushfiq, seemingly flustered, followed his teammates back to the dressing room after a spectacular catch by Temba Bavuma. Mahmudullah Riyad, a man of great temperament in the first innings at Potchefstroom, started with promise but perished to a poor shot against a wide delivery from Parnell. As Bangladesh’s hopes of mounting a respectable reply began to fade, Liton stood resolutely at the crease.

Liton, often a player of great promise but inconsistency, chose the moment to demonstrate his skill and mental fortitude. In the face of the relentless South African pace, he opted not for a defensive mindset but for an intelligent counterattack, reminiscent of classical batting rather than the frantic T20 style that dominates the modern game.

His first boundary came via an edge, but it was his second that showcased his true technique. Parnell, pitching on a good length, was punished with a boundary through long off—Liton had quickly assessed the length and got into position with remarkable clarity. His ability to read the bowler and play with such controlled aggression began to frustrate the South African bowlers.

The Art of Counterattack: Liton’s Mastery

After tea, Bangladesh’s position deteriorated further with the loss of Imrul Kayes and Sabbir Rahman, but Liton remained undeterred. He assumed the role of a calm anchor for the tail-enders, notably Taijul Islam, with great composure and remarkable skill. Liton’s shot selection against South African pacers was outstanding—he exhibited great technique and footwork, especially when confronted by the likes of Rabada.

Rabada, known for his searing pace, was taken on by Liton with remarkable poise. In the 22nd over, Rabada banged in a short ball, and Liton executed a superb hook shot, keeping the ball down on the ground. It was a shot executed with such sublime technique that it stood out as a rare gem in modern cricket, where the hook shot has become less of a common sight.

Liton continued to frustrate Rabada, who switched to a back-of-a-length line outside off. Liton, however, responded with a series of elegant strokes through the offside, two of which were classic boundaries, delivered with perfect timing and balance. Rabada, caught off guard by Liton’s flawless execution, had no answer.

A Lesson in Temperament and Technique

As the innings progressed, Liton’s composure was evident. Against Phehlukwayo, he unleashed a sequence of brilliant boundaries, taking control of the game and dragging Bangladesh out of a seemingly insurmountable hole. His fifty was a milestone, but it was the ease with which he found the gaps, even in the face of relentless pressure, that spoke volumes about his skill and character.

Liton’s partnership with Taijul Islam blossomed into a vital 52-run stand, showcasing his ability to marshal the tail. Phehlukwayo became the next victim of Liton’s calculated aggression, as he dispatched the bowler to all corners of the field, with four boundaries in a single over—a dazzling display of footwork and timing.

However, despite his brilliance, Liton’s innings came to a soft end. Attempting a pull shot against Rabada, he edged the ball to Faf du Plessis, bringing his fine knock to a close. Yet, his effort earned him wide recognition as one of the few bright spots in an otherwise grim batting display by Bangladesh.

Conclusion: A Test of Character

Liton’s innings, though ultimately falling short of what could have been a match-saving knock, provided valuable insight into what Bangladesh need to focus on in their quest for improvement in Test cricket. His batting was a lesson in the right attitude and the right technique. Liton demonstrated that, while the pitch might present challenges, the real test lies in the temperament and approach to the game. His ability to counterattack intelligently, his footwork against pace, and his composure under pressure all point to a player with the potential to be a mainstay in Bangladesh’s Test side.

His performance with both bat and gloves offers hope for Bangladesh’s future in the longer format of the game. Liton Kumar Das has shown that, with the right mental approach, no challenge is insurmountable—a sentiment that should resonate deeply within Bangladesh’s cricketing circle.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Liton Das: A Glimpse of Promise Amid South Africa’s Strategic Play

The atmosphere at Potchefstroom shifted unexpectedly after the tea break on the second day of the first Test. South African captain Faf du Plessis, known for his sharp tactical instincts, declared his team’s innings at 496 for 3, leaving spectators puzzled. The home side seemed poised to cross the 550-run mark, but Faf had a deeper game plan—a move reminiscent of his shrewd declaration against Australia in the third Test of 2016. 

Back then, Du Plessis had capitalized on David Warner’s absence from the field due to injury, catching the Australians off guard by forcing them to bat underprepared. At Potchefstroom, he applied a similar ploy, targeting Bangladesh’s batting backbone, Tamim Iqbal. Observing Tamim’s prolonged absence from the field, Faf sensed an opportunity to disrupt the visiting side’s rhythm. His decision compelled Bangladesh to send out an unfamiliar opening pair of Imrul Kayes and Liton Das, with Liton, fresh from 146 grueling overs behind the stumps, facing the daunting task of countering South Africa’s fiery pace attack.

Liton Das: Baptism Under Fire

Stepping out to open the innings in such high-pressure circumstances was an unenviable challenge for Liton Das. The Dinajpur-born wicketkeeper-batsman showed composure far beyond his experience, enduring the probing spells of Morne Morkel and Kagiso Rabada with a blend of courage and technical finesse.  

The opening delivery from Morkel—a full, rapid ball angling into the middle and leg stump—was enough to test even seasoned batsmen. Yet, Liton exhibited remarkable calm, shuffling his feet confidently to flick it down the leg for a couple of runs. It was a signal of intent, but the road ahead was treacherous. Morkel responded with a barrage of searing deliveries, testing Liton’s reflexes and fortitude. Against the third delivery of the over, Liton’s response—a precise back-foot defence—showcased his ability to absorb pressure and adjust to the pace. 

A Masterclass in Technique

Liton’s performance against Morkel was an insightful exhibition of modern batsmanship. By the third over, Morkel began probing outside off-stump, searching for an error in judgment. Liton, however, remained disciplined. He displayed the poise of a seasoned opener, leaving deliveries that posed a threat and curbing any reckless instinct to chase balls outside the line. 

His footwork was precise and assured, a hallmark of his technical prowess. When Morkel overpitched, Liton capitalized with an effortless drive, transferring his weight seamlessly from back foot to front, caressing the ball with perfect timing. 

It was in the ninth over, however, that Liton truly stamped his authority. Morkel unleashed a short-pitched ball of venomous pace, targeting Liton’s body. The response was breathtaking—a controlled pivot on the back foot, his wrists rolling over the ball in a manner reminiscent of Ricky Ponting. The result was a perfectly placed boundary through backward square leg. A similar delivery followed, and Liton dispatched it with equal elegance. 

A Glimpse of Greatness

What set Liton apart during his brief innings was his ability to get on top of the bounce. This quality, combined with his compact technique, high backlift, and still head, made him a captivating prospect at the top of the order. His balance, both physically and mentally, was noteworthy for a batsman thrust into an unfamiliar role under immense pressure. 

But for all his brilliance, Liton’s innings ended on a note of frustration. Morkel tempted him with a delivery outside off-stump, and this time, the youngster’s patience wavered. Reaching for the ball, he edged it into the slips, marking the end of his valiant effort. 

Lessons to Be Learned

Liton’s dismissal highlighted an area for growth: the need for temperance in building innings. His eagerness to dominate the bowling, while admirable, sometimes led to lapses in judgment. Patience and shot selection, especially on testing pitches, are qualities he must hone to realize his full potential. 

The silver lining is that these are learnable skills, ones that come with experience and consistent opportunities at the highest level. For a player with his technical foundation and natural talent, the ceiling is high. What Liton needs now is trust from the team management—a clear role, ample exposure, and the confidence that he belongs on the international stage. 

A Star in the Making

Liton Das’s performance at Potchefstroom was a microcosm of Bangladesh’s Test cricket journey: flashes of brilliance, moments of vulnerability, and lessons to be absorbed. Against one of the world’s most fearsome bowling attacks, Liton exhibited the resilience and skill required to succeed at the highest level. 

His ability to handle pace, particularly on bouncy tracks, makes him an invaluable asset for Bangladesh in conditions outside the subcontinent. If nurtured properly, Liton could become the dependable top-order batsman that Bangladesh has long searched for—a player capable of weathering storms and delivering artistry under pressure. 

In a match dominated by Faf du Plessis’ tactical brilliance and South Africa’s overwhelming superiority, Liton Das’s short but impactful innings was a beacon of hope for Bangladesh’s cricketing future. The stage is set; it is now up to Liton and the team to seize the moment and turn potential into legacy. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Liton Das: A Beacon of Promise Amidst Chittagong’s Rain-Soaked Drama

In the humid embrace of a Bangladeshi summer, where the relentless sun exhausts both land and spirit, the arrival of rain is often celebrated as a divine reprieve. Yet, for cricket lovers, the monsoon often plays the antagonist, turning promising matches into soggy tales of what might have been. Such was the fate of the first Test between Bangladesh and South Africa in Chittagong—a game beautifully poised before torrential rain washed away the narrative of a potential historic triumph for the Tigers. 

While fans mourned the curtailed encounter, the preceding three days had already etched several positives into Bangladesh’s cricketing ledger. At the heart of these gains stood Liton Das, a young cricketer from Dinajpur whose steady rise through the ranks had culminated in a performance that silenced doubters and inspired dreams. 

A Rain-Drenched Glimpse of Promise 

The Test had unfolded with an unexpected twist: South Africa, a team known for their dominance, found themselves on the back foot from day one. Bangladesh, riding on improved tactics under Mushfiqur Rahim’s captaincy, showcased a level of discipline and resolve seldom associated with their Test performances against top-tier opposition. 

Among the standout contributions was Liton’s maiden Test fifty—a knock that transcended mere numbers. It was a statement of intent, forged in the crucible of pressure and adversity. Coming to the crease with Bangladesh still trailing by 53 runs and their top order back in the pavilion, Liton partnered with Shakib Al Hasan to stitch an 82-run stand that not only erased the deficit but handed Bangladesh a crucial lead. 

Liton Das: The Artist in the Making 

Liton’s innings was an exhibition of patience, composure, and technical brilliance. Gone were the flashy strokes and fleeting moments of brilliance that had once marked his game. Instead, he embraced restraint, meeting South Africa’s formidable pace attack with maturity beyond his years. 

Morne Morkel tested him with short-pitched deliveries, Dale Steyn probed with searing accuracy, and Vernon Philander sought to exploit any chink in his technique. Yet, Liton stood tall, his defensive technique as unyielding as the rainclouds above. His ability to read the game and adapt his approach was particularly striking—a clear sign of his evolution as a Test cricketer. 

As he settled, Liton unveiled his repertoire of elegant strokes. A cover drive off Morkel, timed so exquisitely that the ball seemed to glide through the covers, stood out as the shot of the day. It was not power but precision that defined him—a characteristic reminiscent of the legendary Mark Waugh. Liton’s back-foot play and wristy flicks, honed since his BKSP days, were on full display, reinforcing the belief that he is one of Bangladesh’s finest timers of the cricket ball. 

A Journey Rooted in Talent and Perseverance 

Liton’s journey to the Chittagong Test had been anything but straightforward. Hailing from Dinajpur, he first garnered attention during his time at BKSP, where his appetite for big scores set him apart. His performances in two consecutive Under-19 World Cups cemented his reputation as a technically sound batsman with a temperament suited for the longer format. 

His transition to domestic cricket was marked by consistency. By the 2014-15 season, he was the leading run-scorer in the National Cricket League and a standout performer in the Dhaka Premier League. These exploits earned him a national call-up, but his initial outings in limited-overs cricket revealed a penchant for flamboyance over consistency. 

However, the Liton who walked out at Chittagong was a transformed player. The weight of expectations, combined with competition for spots in the national team, seemed to have sharpened his focus. His ability to adapt to the demands of Test cricket—curbing his natural instincts and playing for the team—was evident throughout the innings. 

The Road Ahead 

Liton Das’s performance in Chittagong was not just a personal milestone but a testament to Bangladesh cricket’s growing depth. His solid technique, paired with an eye for timing, makes him a rare gem in Bangladesh’s batting lineup. While his drives and flicks evoke nostalgia for the artistry of Mark Waugh, his grit and adaptability speak of a player determined to carve his own legacy. 

As the rain robbed Bangladesh of a potential 1-0 series lead, it also left fans dreaming of what the future holds for Liton. He belongs higher up the order, where his technique and temperament can be fully utilized. If nurtured well, Liton Das has all the makings of becoming Bangladesh’s finest batsman—a player who doesn’t just perform but inspires. 

In the end, while Chittagong’s rain might have ended the match prematurely, it also heralded the arrival of a player destined to shine for Bangladesh, rain or shine.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Three Tales of Talent: The Stories of Viv Richards, Inzamam-ul-Haq, and Litton Das

Cricket, like life, thrives on moments of intuition, courage, and vision. Behind every legend lies the discerning eye of a mentor, a scout, or a leader who saw potential beyond numbers. This is the essence of three remarkable stories—Viv Richards, Inzamam-ul-Haq, and Liton Das—where belief in innate talent transcended conventional metrics. 

 The Somerset Scout and the Birth of a King 

In 1974, Len Creed, the vice-chairman of Somerset County Cricket Club, embarked on his annual winter pilgrimage to the West Indies, a scouting mission in search of fresh talent. Creed's entourage was a melting pot of international cricketers, a blend of established names and curious enthusiasts. On this tour, Creed carried a tip from the legendary Colin Cowdrey: "Keep an eye on a young Antiguan batsman named Viv Richards." 

Richards' reputation preceded him, and locals spoke of his prowess in reverent whispers. Yet, when the much-anticipated moment arrived, Viv faltered, managing a modest 32 runs. Most scouts might have dismissed him, but not Creed. What he saw in Richards wasn’t just a player but a spark—a natural flair, composure, and hunger. 

Defying opposition from Somerset's president, who baulked at taking a "gamble" on an unproven player, Creed vouched for Richards with unyielding conviction. His confidence was prophetic. Viv Richards didn’t merely succeed; he rewrote cricket's narrative, embodying dominance and charisma. Creed’s belief in his temperament and innate ability—not just the numbers—cemented Richards’ place in cricketing lore. 

Imran Khan’s Eye for the Unseen

Fast forward to 1991, where Pakistan's captain Imran Khan was building a World Cup team that would go down in history. Imran, a tactician and visionary, had scouts who kept him informed about emerging players. Among their recommendations was a young, rotund batsman with an unassuming demeanour: Inzamam-ul-Haq. 

Imran summoned the boy to the nets, instructing Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis to unleash their fiercest deliveries. What unfolded was extraordinary. Inzamam hooked and pulled fearlessly, and his early reading of length left the pacers frustrated. Standing at the non-striker’s end, Imran observed the young man closely. "This boy is God-gifted," he thought. 

Despite scepticism from selectors and critics, Imran insisted on including Inzamam in the 1992 World Cup squad. The decision paid dividends in the semifinal against New Zealand, where Inzamam’s explosive 60 off 37 balls swung the game and paved the way for Pakistan’s historic triumph. Like Creed, Imran trusted his instinct, recognizing raw talent that mere statistics couldn’t capture. 

Liton Das: A Jewel in Bangladesh’s Crown

Fast forward to modern-day Bangladesh. The discourse around Liton Das is polarizing. While some laud his talent, others question his place in the team, insinuating that factors beyond merit played a role in his selection. This narrative ignores the essence of what makes Litton special: his artistry and temperament. 

Consider two moments against South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada. A short-of-length delivery in the second over was disdainfully hooked for six over long leg—a shot of rare audacity. Then came the fourth over: a good-length ball on middle and off was flicked to backward square leg for four, a stroke of sheer elegance. Few Bangladeshi batsmen possess such an intuitive ability to read length early and execute with precision against top-tier pace. 

Litton’s game isn’t just about technique; it’s about temperament, confidence, and an almost poetic sense of timing. His inclusion in the team mirrors the foresight of Creed and Imran. Coach Chandika Hathurusingha, like a jeweller spotting an uncut gem, recognizes Litton’s potential and nurtures him by positioning him where he can shine. 

The Common Thread: Vision Beyond Statistics

Viv Richards, Inzamam-ul-Haq, and Liton Das—are three players from different eras and contexts, yet their stories converge on a singular theme. The greatness of these players lay not just in what they were but in the vision of those who believed in them. 

Talent in cricket, as in life, cannot always be quantified. Numbers tell part of the story, but they miss the fire in the belly, the courage under pressure, and the artistry that defines greatness. Scouts like Creed, leaders like Imran, and coaches like Hathurusingha see beyond the obvious. 

To those who question Liton Das’ place in the team, it’s worth reflecting: how many players can hook, pull, and flick with such flair under Rabada’s onslaught? How many of us have the vision to recognize and nurture raw talent before it blossoms? 

The game of cricket, much like society, thrives when prejudice and narrow-mindedness give way to open-minded appreciation. Liton Das is not just a player; he is a reminder of how fortunate Bangladesh is to have a talent whose brilliance, if nurtured, can redefine the team’s future.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar