March: The Month of Triumph and Resilience for Bangladesh

March in Bangladesh’s history is no mere page in the calendar—it is a living testament to resilience, courage, and the unyielding will to stand free. In 1971, the month’s final week ignited the nation’s defining struggle: the Liberation War. On March 25, the West Pakistani military unleashed a night of brutality in Dhaka, but the flames they sought to extinguish only blazed higher. Within two days, Major Ziaur Rahman’s declaration of independence—broadcast from Kalurghat Radio Station on behalf of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman—rang across the land, a call that transformed fear into defiance.

Decades later, March would again test Bangladesh’s spirit—not on a battlefield, but on a cricket field. In 2017, amid the shadow of terrorist attacks and national anxiety, the Bangladesh cricket team stepped into Colombo for their landmark 100th Test. Against Sri Lanka, a nation long dominant on its home turf, Bangladesh sought not only victory but affirmation—a moment that could stand alongside the great turning points of their sporting history.

Day One: A Statement of Intent

The P Sara Oval greeted Bangladesh with ceremonial warmth, but the challenge ahead was severe. Losing the toss could have tilted the balance, yet Mustafizur Rahman’s early incision and Mehedi Hasan’s guile dismantled Sri Lanka’s top order. By lunch, the hosts were tottering at 70 for 4. Chandimal’s defiance—86 not out at stumps—kept them afloat, but Bangladesh had made their presence felt.

There was more than skill at play; there was belief. Tamim Iqbal’s constant chatter in the field, Shakib Al Hasan’s tight spells, Mushfiqur Rahim’s sharp glove work—all spoke of a side determined to seize the moment. This was no ordinary start; it was a declaration that Bangladesh would not be passengers in their centennial Test.

The Middle Passage: Endurance and Errors

Cricket’s narrative often swings on discipline. On the second day, Bangladesh’s bowlers found themselves on the wrong end of Chandimal’s patience. His century, built alongside Herath and Lakmal, lifted Sri Lanka to 338. In reply, Bangladesh began brightly—Tamim and Soumya Sarkar stroking a fluent stand—but wickets at crucial intervals stunted momentum. By stumps, the scoreboard reflected both promise and peril.

It was on the third day that Bangladesh turned the match’s tide. Starting on 214 for 5, they needed a seasoned hand to anchor the innings. Shakib answered with a measured, risk-averse century—his fifth in Tests—while debutant Mosaddek Hossain added a composed 75. Their seventh-wicket stand of 131 propelled Bangladesh to 467, a lead of 129. For only the second time in their history, they had taken a first-innings lead away from home while batting second.

Day Four: The Spell That Tilted the Game

If Shakib’s innings was the backbone, Mustafizur’s post-lunch spell on day four was the dagger. In oppressive Colombo heat, he bent the ball like a conjurer, dismissing Mendis, Chandimal, and de Silva in a seven-over burst that reshaped the contest. Shakib’s three wickets and Taijul Islam’s late strike ensured Sri Lanka closed with only a 139-run lead. The tension was now palpable—the fourth innings would be the crucible.

Day Five: Crossing the Threshold

Chasing 191 in an away Test is treacherous terrain for Bangladesh, but Tamim and Sabbir Rahman’s 109-run stand for the third wicket was a masterclass in poise. Tamim’s 82 was a blend of caution and calculated aggression, featuring drives through extra cover and a towering six over long-on. Yet, as is often the case in Bangladesh’s history, the finish was not without drama.

Shakib’s dismissal with 29 still required stirred nerves. Mushfiqur narrowly escaped an lbw on review. Mosaddek’s crisp boundaries brought the target within touching distance before he fell. Finally, Mehedi Hasan’s sweep sealed the win—their first ever Test victory over Sri Lanka and a fitting jewel for their 100th match.

The Turning Point Beyond the Field

This victory did not emerge from thin air. It was forged in an hour-long dressing-room meeting after their heavy Galle defeat—a session of candid self-assessment led by coach Chandika Hathurusingha and senior players. They spoke of valuing every run, every saved boundary, every moment of pressure applied. It was not unlike the fabled 2003 Indian World Cup team meeting that sparked a turnaround.

In Colombo, the lessons bore fruit. The bowlers attacked with intelligence; the fielders stayed alert; the batsmen absorbed pressure and built partnerships. Hathurusingha later called Mustafizur’s fourth-day spell “the game changer,” but the real change was deeper—an alignment of focus, effort, and belief.

Conclusion: March, Again

Bangladesh’s win at the P Sara Oval was more than a statistical milestone. It was the proof of a team’s capacity to learn, adapt, and prevail against a formidable home side. For a nation that marks March as the month of liberation, the victory was symbolic—another chapter of resilience, another reaffirmation that perseverance yields triumph.

The 100th Test was not just a cricket match. It was an echo of 1971’s spirit: that under pressure, with the odds against them, Bangladesh can still rise. And if they hold onto the lessons from Colombo—cherishing every run, guarding every chance—they might just find that the place they have always sought to succeed, Test cricket, is now within their grasp.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

The Roar of a Nation: The Legacy of Bangladesh’s Test Journey

“The three great elemental sounds in nature are the sound of rain, the sound of wind in a primaeval wood, and the sound of the outer ocean on a beach,” wrote Henry Beston. For many in Bangladesh, these are poetic and serene, but they pale in comparison to a more electrifying sound—the deafening roar of cricket fans in jam-packed stadiums at Mirpur, Chittagong, Khulna, and Fatullah. 

That roar, echoing through the hearts of millions, is more than a celebration. It is a testament to the resilience, passion, and determination of a nation that dared to dream against all odds. And none of it would have been possible without that fateful day—**June 26, 2000**—when Bangladesh was awarded Test status. 

A Dream Beyond the Horizon 

Cricket in Bangladesh, before Test status, was like a river without a destination. The followers were there, the passion undeniable, but there was no stage grand enough to channel their fervour. The road to Test cricket was not merely challenging—it was strewn with scepticism and setbacks. 

Bangladesh's victory at the ICC Trophy in 1997, followed by the iconic win against Pakistan in the 1999 World Cup at Northampton, were watershed moments. These achievements provided  Saber Hossain Chowdhury, Syed Ashraful Haque, and their team the ammunition to campaign for Test recognition. Yet, even with these wins, the task was daunting. Persuading the International Cricket Council (ICC) required more than just results—it demanded vision, strategy, and unshakable belief. 

The Eddie Barlow Era: Architect of Change 

Enter Eddie Barlow, the South African legend whose short-sightedness and stout build as a boy had earned him the nickname Bunter.” What he lacked in physical elegance, he more than compensated for with his determination and cricketing acumen. By the time he joined Bangladesh in 1999, Barlow had already carved out a legacy of competitive cricket infused with grit and professionalism. 

Barlow wasn’t just a coach—he was a revolutionary. He emphasized the development of Bangladesh’s domestic cricket structure, understanding that the foundation of Test success lay in nurturing talent from within. Former cricketer and selector Faruqe Ahmed would later call him *“the architect behind the change of the domestic structure.”

Barlow’s approach was holistic. He worked relentlessly with the players, instilling in them not just skills but the mental resilience required to face the rigours of Test cricket. His philosophy was simple yet profound: Bangladesh had to think and act like a Test nation long before they were granted the status. 

The Players’ Coach 

For the cricketers, Barlow was more than a mentor; he was a father figure. His encouragement and belief transformed careers. Habibul Bashar, one of Bangladesh’s most dependable batsmen, recalled how Barlow stood up for him when his place in the team was uncertain. 

“Whatever I have achieved was because of that man,” said Bashar, remembering how Barlow ensured his inclusion in Bangladesh’s inaugural Test squad. 

Barlow’s faith in Bangladesh cricket was unwavering, even when the rest of the world doubted. His presentation to the ICC, showcasing the growth of cricket in Bangladesh, was pivotal in swaying the votes needed to secure Test status. 

The First Test: A Symbol of Triumph 

When Bangladesh played their inaugural Test against India in November 2000, Barlow was there, despite a debilitating stroke that confined him to a wheelchair. His presence symbolized the culmination of years of effort, sacrifice, and belief. 

The match itself was historic, not least because of Aminul Islam’s magnificent century on debut. Reflecting on that day, Aminul recalled how Barlow’s struggles to stand and applaud his achievement became one of the most poignant moments of his career. “Soon after thanking Allah, I looked towards the dressing room where a paralysed Eddie Barlow was trying hard to stand up from his wheelchair to give a standing ovation,” Aminul said. 

This was not just a game. It was a vindication of a dream. 

 The Legacy of Barlow 

Barlow’s tenure with Bangladesh was tragically cut short by a hemorrhagic stroke, and he passed away in 2005. Yet, his legacy endures. He laid the groundwork for a cricketing culture that continues to evolve, though the pace has often been frustratingly slow. Many believe that had Barlow stayed longer, Bangladesh’s domestic structure might have been stronger, and their early struggles in Test cricket less pronounced. 

The Sound That Echoes Still 

As Bangladesh prepared to play their 100th Test match at the P. Sara Oval on March 15, 2017, the journey came full circle. From those early days of scepticism to becoming one of the most passionately supported cricket nations in the world, the Tigers have come a long way. 

Eddie Barlow, watching from beyond, would surely feel pride in what he helped build. His vision and belief gave a voice to a nation’s cricketing aspirations. Today, that voice reverberates in the stadiums of Mirpur and Chittagong, louder and more vibrant than the monsoon rains or the waves of Cox’s Bazar. 

Bangladesh cricket is not just a story of sport; it is a story of hope, resilience, and triumph. It is the sound of a nation finding its place on the global stage.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Bangladesh’s Journey Through Sri Lankan Soil: Grit, Grace, and Growing Pains

November 10, 2000, marked a seminal moment in Bangladesh’s cricketing history as the nation, just 29 years old, earned the coveted Test status. For a country where cricket was more than a sport—a unifier, a symbol of resilience—this was a dream realized. Yet, the early years in Test cricket were an unforgiving trial. Inconsistencies and crushing defeats led critics to question the International Cricket Council's decision, calling it premature. 

Barely a year into their Test journey, Bangladesh embarked on a learning expedition to Sri Lanka for the second edition of the Asian Test Championship. It was a baptism of fire against a seasoned opponent. Playing their first Test on Sri Lankan soil on September 10, 2001, the Tigers endured a chastening experience. It would set the tone for their future tours to the island nation—filled with grit and isolated moments of brilliance amidst overwhelming struggles. 

Ashraful’s Beacon of Light 

The inaugural Test on Sri Lankan soil turned into a nightmare as Bangladesh folded for a paltry 90 in their first innings. Facing a mammoth deficit, a 16-year-old debutant, Mohammad Ashraful, rose to the occasion. Against the guile of Muttiah Muralitharan and the might of Sri Lanka’s bowling attack, Ashraful displayed a fearless approach. Dancing down the pitch to counter spin and piercing gaps with late cuts, he carved an astonishing century, becoming the youngest centurion in Test history. 

His 114 off 212 balls was a symphony of courage and skill, as he stood tall while wickets crumbled around him. Though Bangladesh lost, Ashraful’s knock offered a glimpse of the team's potential—a moment of defiance in a sea of despair. 

Grit in the Face of Adversity: Kapali, Baisya, and Monjural 

The 2002 series in Sri Lanka was another tough outing, but it showcased the resilience of Bangladesh's lower order. Reduced to 86 for 7 in the second Test at the SSC Ground, debutants Alok Kapali and Tapash Baisya displayed a rare tenacity. Baisya’s maiden half-century and Kapali’s dogged 39 reflected a new-found grit. 

Adding to this rearguard was Monjural Islam, whose epic 72-minute duck stood as a symbol of resistance. Though the team fell short of avoiding the follow-on, the tailenders sent a strong message: survival was possible with patience and purpose. 

Ashraful’s Class and Bashar’s Elegance 

In the years to follow, Bangladesh’s tours to Sri Lanka continued to expose their frailties. However, moments of individual brilliance punctuated the narrative. In the 2005 series at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Habibul Bashar, fondly called "Mr. Fifty," produced a stroke-filled 84. His wristy leg glances and commanding pulls delighted fans, though his dismissal triggered yet another collapse. 

Ashraful, too, continued to shine in patches. His 75 in the 2002 series and subsequent partnerships with teammates, like Mushfiqur Rahim, hinted at what could be achieved with consistency. 

Turning the Tide: The Galle Test of 2013 

The 2013 Galle Test marked a turning point in Bangladesh’s journey in Sri Lanka. A flat track set the stage for Mushfiqur Rahim and Mohammad Ashraful to script history. Ashraful, battling a slump in form, played one of the finest innings of his career. His 190—a blend of precision and passion—showcased his ability to anchor an innings under pressure. 

At the other end, Mushfiqur Rahim made history with Bangladesh’s first double-century in Test cricket. His monumental 200 not out was an exercise in discipline and determination, spanning 437 minutes and featuring 22 boundaries. Together, they helped Bangladesh post their first-ever 600-plus total in Tests, earning a memorable draw. 

Shahriar Nafees and Bangladesh’s Future 

Among the glimpses of hope was Shahriar Nafees, whose promising debut at 19 in 2005 gave fans reason to dream. His 51 at P Sara Oval, built on a foundation of attacking instincts, hinted at a player capable of shouldering future batting responsibilities. Though his career would prove inconsistent, his emergence reflected Bangladesh’s growing pool of talent. 

The Road Ahead 

Bangladesh’s Test journey in Sri Lanka has been a tale of slow evolution. From Ashraful’s record-breaking debut century to Mushfiqur Rahim’s historic double ton, the Tigers have shown they are capable of challenging cricket’s elite. Yet, their inconsistency remains a lingering obstacle. 

Every moment of brilliance—from Bashar’s onside artistry to the defiance of Kapali and Baisya—has contributed to shaping the team’s identity. While victories have been elusive, these performances are a testament to Bangladesh’s resilience and potential. 

The challenge remains daunting, but cricket, like life, is a game of patience and persistence. For Bangladesh, the journey on Sri Lankan soil has been less about winning and more about learning, growing, and inching closer to a future where triumph is not a rarity but a habit. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Tigers and the Lankan Lions: A Tale of Testing Spin and Temperament

In the early days of their Test journey, Bangladesh faced many a baptism by fire. Among those was their first tour to Sri Lanka in September 2001, part of the Asian Test Championship. Just over a year into their Test status, the Tigers encountered the formidable Sri Lankans at Colombo's SSC Ground. It was a harsh initiation, marred by the precision of Sri Lanka’s batting and the wizardry of Muttiah Muralitharan. Mohammad Ashraful’s record-breaking century on debut—a brilliant spark in the gloom—was the sole balm for the visitors' wounds. 

Two decades later, the narrative of Bangladesh’s Test cricket in Sri Lanka remains one of relentless struggles. Despite incremental growth and fleeting moments of defiance, they are yet to register a Test victory against Sri Lanka, either home or away. Their best effort came in 2013 when a defiant batting display earned them a draw at Galle—a rare glimmer in an otherwise daunting record. 

Fast forward to 2017, and the dynamics appeared to shift. Bangladesh, now boasting experience and confidence, landed on Sri Lankan shores as a competitive unit, with aspirations of rewriting history. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, were in transition. The retirements of stalwarts like Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene had left a vacuum in leadership and experience. Angelo Mathews' absence compounded their woes, and Rangana Herath—veteran spinner and reluctant captain—shouldered dual responsibilities as skipper and lead bowler. 

Herath, a giant in his own right, had spent much of his career emerging from Muralitharan’s shadow. In the six years following Murali’s retirement, Herath claimed a staggering 279 Test wickets, becoming Sri Lanka’s indispensable weapon on spinning tracks. His dominance at home was unparalleled—231 wickets at an average of 23.15, striking every 51 deliveries. The numbers soared further at his beloved Galle (84 wickets) and P Sara Oval (34 wickets), venues where the upcoming Tests were to unfold. 

Bangladesh’s Challenge: Navigating Herath’s Web 

Bangladesh’s hopes rested heavily on their ability to neutralize Herath. Historically, the crafty left-arm spinner thrived on exploiting technical flaws, especially on turning tracks. Against Bangladesh, his record spoke volumes—25 wickets at 25.60, dismissing key players like Mahmudullah, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Mominul Haque with unnerving regularity. 

The Tigers' approach in 2013 offered a blueprint for success. A flat track at Galle allowed their batsmen to amass over 600 runs, forcing Herath into uncharacteristic toil for figures of 2/162. Yet, conditions had evolved. In recent years, Galle and P Sara Oval pitches had transformed into spin havens, evident from Sri Lanka’s triumphs against India and Australia, where batsmen faltered against turn, bounce, and drift. 

To succeed, Bangladesh’s batsmen needed technical resilience and strategic acumen. Herath’s modus operandi was clear—trapping batsmen with variations in flight and turn, inducing edges to slip or bat-pad, or pinning them leg-before. Of his dismissals, 37.5% were caught in the cordon, and 26.3% were LBWs. These statistics underscored the need for playing late, staying on the back foot, and getting behind the line of the ball. 

The Subtle Threats of a “Weak” Sri Lanka 

While the focus remained on Herath, Sri Lanka’s “weakness” could be deceptive. Even without their iconic batsmen, the hosts possessed players capable of seizing the moment. Youthful exuberance and home advantage often compensated for experience, and Galle’s spinning track was a leveller in itself. 

The Verdict 

Bangladesh’s growth as a cricketing nation has been remarkable, but Sri Lanka remains a fortress yet to be breached. The challenge for the Tigers is not just about skill but temperament—staying composed under pressure and adapting to unfamiliar conditions. 

As Herath readies himself to wield the ball with the precision of a scalpel, the onus is on Bangladesh’s batsmen to rise to the occasion. If they can muster the technique and character to counter the Lankan spin maestro, they might just script a chapter of redemption. Otherwise, history might repeat itself, and the Tigers could return home with another tale of missed opportunities. 

In the end, cricket, like life, thrives on unpredictability. Could this be the moment Bangladesh finally conquers their demons in Sri Lanka? Or will Herath conjure one last magical spell on the sands of Galle? Time will tell.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar