Bridging the Divide: The Case for Bangladesh’s Tour of Pakistan

The Bangladesh Cricket Team stands on the cusp of a historic decision, with a proposed tour of Pakistan that includes a Test series alongside shorter format matches. Should the tour materialize, it would mark Bangladesh’s return to Pakistan for Test cricket after a hiatus of over two decades, the last such encounter occurring in 2003. However, as with previous attempts, uncertainty looms large over the tour’s fate. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) finds itself navigating a delicate balance, reportedly contemplating a proposal to shift the series to a neutral venue should the Bangladesh government withhold its clearance. This cautious approach reflects not only the complexities of geopolitics and security but also the weight of history that underscores such a momentous decision.

On December 3, 2019, Akram Khan, the chairman of cricket operations at the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), articulated a cautious stance regarding the proposed cricket tour of Pakistan. “If we get the clearance from the government, we can start discussions with the Pakistan board, but we are yet to get the clearance. Everything will depend on what the government wants. We will definitely sit with the players to take their opinion as well if the government gives clearance for the tour,” he remarked. 

The BCB’s proposal to split the series—playing the shorter formats in Pakistan and the Test matches at a neutral venue—did little to appease the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). For a nation striving to restore international cricket on home soil, this compromise undermined their efforts. Hosting a partial series would dilute the symbolism of their hard-earned progress. 

The Sri Lankan Precedent 

Pakistan recently hosted Sri Lanka for a full Test series, marking the return of the longest format to its soil after a decade. The series concluded without incident, and Sri Lankan players left with glowing reviews of the hospitality and security arrangements. The PCB’s meticulous planning ensured that every detail was accounted for, and the success of the series became a testament to Pakistan’s readiness to host international cricket. 

Ehsan Mani, the PCB chairman, expressed his frustration over the BCB’s hesitance. “No one should be under any misapprehension as to where Pakistan's home Tests will take place. All of Pakistan's matches, against Bangladesh or anyone else, will take place in Pakistan,” he declared. Mani’s comments underscored the PCB’s resolve to reclaim its status as a host nation. 

A Historical Bond Forged Through Cricket 

From a historical perspective, Pakistan has played an instrumental role in nurturing Bangladesh’s cricketing aspirations. Despite the turbulent history between the two nations, particularly during Bangladesh’s liberation war in 1971, cricket became a bridge that helped mend relations. 

In the mid-1970s, cricket in Bangladesh was struggling to find its footing. The war-torn nation faced insurmountable challenges, and the sport was overshadowed by the popularity of soccer. However, the then Board of Control for Cricket in Pakistan (BCCP) extended a helping hand. 

In 1975, the BCCP invited Bangladesh to nominate a player for the World XI to participate in a celebratory tournament marking the centenary of Mohammad Ali Jinnah’s birth. Raquibul Hasan, Bangladesh’s nominee, became a symbolic representative of the nation’s cricketing potential. His inclusion introduced Bangladesh to the global cricketing community and set the stage for the MCC’s historic visit to Dhaka in 1977, where Bangladesh played its first first-class match.  

During the 1980s, Pakistan continued to support Bangladesh’s cricketing development. Tours by Pakistani teams and visits from cricketing icons like Imran Khan and Sarfraz Nawaz inspired young Bangladeshi players. These initiatives helped popularize cricket in a nation dominated by soccer, laying the foundation for Bangladesh’s eventual rise as a Test-playing nation. 

The Case for Bangladesh’s Participation 

From a purely cricketing perspective, Bangladesh stands to gain significantly by playing more Test matches against Pakistan. Pakistan’s bowling attack, renowned for its quality and depth, offers a formidable challenge that could help Bangladeshi batsmen improve their technique and temperament. Exposure to such high-quality opposition is essential for Bangladesh to elevate its standing in Test cricket, a format where they continue to struggle. 

The argument against touring Pakistan on security grounds has become increasingly untenable, especially in light of Sri Lanka’s successful series. The PCB has demonstrated its ability to host international teams safely, and further reluctance from the BCB risks isolating Bangladesh in the global cricketing community. 

A Step Toward Reconciliation 

Beyond cricket, a tour of Pakistan represents an opportunity for Bangladesh to strengthen ties with its neighbour. Cricket has long been a unifying force, capable of transcending political and historical divides. By agreeing to play in Pakistan, Bangladesh would not only honour its cricketing roots but also pave the way for greater regional camaraderie. 

Conclusion 

The hesitation to tour Pakistan is understandable given the complexities of geopolitics and security concerns. However, the benefits of taking this step far outweigh the perceived risks. For Bangladesh, the tour is not just an opportunity to compete but a chance to honour the historical support that Pakistan provided during their formative years in cricket. 

If Bangladesh aspires to grow as a cricketing nation, it must embrace challenges, even those that come with uncertainties. By playing in Pakistan, Bangladesh would reaffirm its commitment to Test cricket, strengthen its ties with a key cricketing neighbour, and, most importantly, take a bold step toward building a brighter future for the sport in the region. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

A Critical Look at the Relationship Between Bangladesh Cricket and the Press: A Call for Change

 In the ongoing cricket series between Bangladesh and South Africa, a significant controversy has emerged regarding the Bangladesh team’s interaction with the media. According to Prothom Alo, one of Bangladesh’s most popular yet controversial newspapers, the Bangladesh cricket team, under the leadership of head coach Chandika Hathurusingha, has refused to grant interviews to Bangladeshi journalists who travelled to South Africa to cover the series. The team’s practice sessions were held indoors, behind an iron gate, and journalists were denied access. This decision, though controversial, has sparked a deeper conversation about the dynamics between the Bangladesh cricket team and the local sports media.

The Strained Relationship Between Hathurusingha and Local Journalists

Since his appointment as head coach in 2014, Chandika Hathurusingha has faced consistent criticism from a faction of Bangladesh’s sports journalists. Despite his success in transforming the team from a state of mediocrity to a competitive force in international cricket, some journalists have persistently painted him as an "autocrat" and "rude" figure. However, players like Shakib Al Hasan, Mahmudullah Riyad, and Tamim Iqbal have repeatedly expressed their satisfaction with Hathurusingha’s methods and leadership.

The criticism levelled against Hathurusingha often seems to be more personal than professional, rooted in a longstanding vendetta. For a coach to bring out the best in his players, a strict approach to discipline and ethics is often necessary, and if this so-called "autocratic" style results in positive outcomes for the team, it should be seen as a strength rather than a flaw. Hathurusingha’s preference for privacy and consultation with only the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and team management should not be viewed as a flaw, but rather as a deliberate strategy to maintain focus and avoid unnecessary distractions.

The Role of the Press: Superiority Complex and the Misuse of Influence

The issue at hand is not merely about Hathurusingha’s reluctance to engage with the media, but the broader attitude that some of Bangladesh’s sports journalists bring to their work. A certain section of the media seems to believe that they are entitled to access and influence, treating their relationship with players and officials as one of superiority. When coaches or players choose to withhold comments or deny access, these journalists often retaliate by twisting statements or publishing negative stories, creating a toxic atmosphere around the team.

This phenomenon is not new. The case of Nazmul Hassan, the BCB president, is a prime example. His comments about Mushfiqur Rahim were misinterpreted and twisted, leading to widespread outrage among fans. Similarly, when players like Soumya Sarkar or Liton Das choose to avoid certain journalists, they are often subjected to public criticism and their reputations are undermined. This behaviour not only harms the individuals involved but also damages the overall image of Bangladesh cricket.

One must ask: what is the real contribution of these journalists to Bangladesh cricket? Beyond sensationalizing stories and spreading misinformation, what positive impact have they had on the sport? While there are certainly competent and knowledgeable sports journalists in Bangladesh, a disturbing trend has emerged where less-skilled individuals with a limited understanding of the game have gained prominence in the media landscape. This has led to a dilution of the quality of sports journalism in the country.

The Mashrafe Mortaza Conundrum: Exploiting Personal Relationships for Professional Gain?

A particularly troubling aspect of this media-player dynamic is the relationship between some journalists and key players, notably Mashrafe Mortaza, one of Bangladesh’s most beloved cricketers. The "bromance" between Mashrafe and certain journalists has given rise to a harmful syndicate that undermines the integrity of the sport. These journalists, using their personal relationships with Mashrafe, have gained easy access to the team and have used this access to create unnecessary hype and stir controversy.

This unhealthy influence has led to the creation of sensationalized stories and conspiracies, which only serve to confuse and divide the fanbase. It raises the question: is Mashrafe using these journalists for his own benefit? Is he seeking to manipulate public perception and position himself as a hero by vilifying others? This manipulation of the media for personal gain is detrimental to the health of Bangladesh cricket and must be addressed.

The Need for Change: A Call for BCB’s Intervention

It is high time that the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) takes a firm stance against the negative influence of certain journalists. A code of conduct needs to be established, one that ensures that access to players and officials is controlled and that journalists are held accountable for their actions. The BCB must prioritize the welfare of the team and the sport over the interests of a select few journalists who seek to exploit their access for personal or professional gain.

While journalism is a noble and challenging profession, it must be practised with integrity and responsibility. The current state of sports journalism in Bangladesh, with its emphasis on sensationalism and personal vendettas, is not only disgraceful but also harmful to the development of the sport. The constant provocation and manipulation of players and coaches, as seen with former coaches like Heath Streak and Thilan Samaraweera, have resulted in their premature departure from the team.

Conclusion: A Call for a More Responsible Media

Bangladesh cricket, its players, and its fans deserve better. The BCB must act swiftly to address the growing issue of negative media influence and ensure that the focus remains on the game, not on personal rivalries or sensationalist stories. The media’s role should be to support and uplift the sport, not to tear it down with misinformation and personal agendas. For the sake of Bangladesh cricket, it is crucial that the BCB enforces stricter guidelines on media access and ensures that the voices of those who truly understand the game and its nuances are the ones that are heard.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Bangladesh Cricket: A Resurgence Sparked by Leadership and Resolve

In recent years, Bangladesh has emerged as a formidable force in international cricket, earning respect for its spirited performances against top teams like India and Pakistan. The Tigers' back-to-back series victories against these cricketing giants elevated expectations worldwide, signalling a team capable of challenging any opponent in the limited-overs format. However, the high hopes carried into the South African series were met with a harsh reality check, as Bangladesh stumbled through the initial games. 

The series began with a jarring performance in the first T20I, where the Proteas dismantled the Tigers with clinical precision. The second match showed glimmers of resistance, yet the result remained the same. These early defeats mirrored old habits: rash strokes and a lack of composure under pressure, raising doubts about Bangladesh's readiness to compete consistently against professional units like South Africa or Australia. 

A Timely Intervention

Recognizing the downward spiral, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Nazmul Hassan took the unusual step of engaging directly with the team mid-series. In a move blending stern guidance with heartfelt encouragement, Hassan convened meetings with the players, the captain Mashrafe Mortaza, head coach Chandika Hathurusingha, and the BCB's technical committee. 

Hassan's approach was both critical and constructive. While he openly addressed the team's lacklustre attitude, he also sought to uplift morale by reminding the players of their potential. "You have done so well since the World Cup," he told them. "I do not see why you cannot put up some competition against South Africa, especially on home soil." 

This candid yet supportive tone resonated with the players. Hassan didn’t shy away from technical critiques, advising key players like Mushfiqur Rahim and Soumya Sarkar to refine their shot selection and shoulder greater responsibility. His guidance extended to team strategy, voicing disapproval of overly defensive selections and advocating a more balanced lineup. 

Nasir Hossain later reflected on the impact of this meeting, stating, "Mr President always gives us courage. It was not a formal meeting but more of a heartfelt conversation. He reminded us to stay serious about our game while emphasizing belief in our abilities." 

Turning the Tide

The second ODI marked a dramatic turnaround. Under the lights at Mirpur, a reinvigorated Bangladesh delivered a performance brimming with intent and aggression. The pace attack, led by Rubel Hossain—whose selection bore traces of Hassan’s influence—struck early and decisively. Complemented by crafty spinners, the Tigers skittled South Africa for a modest total. 

In the chase, Bangladesh showcased a newfound composure. Soumya Sarkar, initially tentative, adapted his approach, valuing restraint over flair to craft a brilliant 88. Mahmudullah Riyad’s steady presence at the other end provided the perfect foil, guiding the team to a memorable victory that secured their place in the Champions Trophy. 

The Role of Leadership

Nazmul Hassan’s intervention was more than just a pep talk; it was a masterstroke in crisis management. His ability to address both psychological and technical aspects of the game injected a sense of accountability and purpose into the team. The Tigers' rejuvenated body language and disciplined performance in the second ODI underscored the efficacy of his approach. 

While some critics initially questioned the timing and necessity of such direct involvement from the BCB President, the results silenced detractors. The team's victory against South Africa not only vindicated Hassan’s methods but also showcased the importance of visionary leadership in steering a team through turbulent waters. 

A Bright Future Awaits

This resurgence against the Proteas marks a pivotal chapter in Bangladesh cricket's journey. It demonstrates the team’s ability to learn from setbacks and rise to the occasion when it matters most. With a blend of raw talent, seasoned leadership, and administrative support, the Tigers are poised to script more success stories on the global stage.

The South African series serves as a reminder that cricket is as much about mental fortitude as it is about skill. For Bangladesh, the lesson is clear: belief, preparation, and guidance can turn adversity into triumph, reaffirming their place among cricket’s most exciting teams.

Thank You
Faisal Caesar