Mirpur Meltdown: When Dreams Fade, Again

This morning, while travelling by bus to the hospital, I found myself amid an electric atmosphere. Conversations buzzed around me, and the passengers brimmed with optimism, animated by the final day’s play between Bangladesh and the West Indies at Mirpur. The scent of victory hung in the air—something rare for our cricket. Everywhere, people exchanged predictions laced with confidence, hoping for a triumph that felt both imminent and deserved.  

Checking Facebook on my phone, I found our virtual communities resonating with the same fervour. The collective voice of Bangladesh prayed for one thing: Do not let this be another Multan. The scar of that infamous loss, where we fell to a single man’s brilliance, still lingers. Yet, in Mirpur, we were not up against a lone genius; this time, we lost ourselves.  

Sohag Gazi, on his Test debut, spun a web around the Caribbean tail, wrapping up the innings swiftly. His efforts set a modest target of 245 runs for Bangladesh—achievable with time in hand. The fifth-day pitch at Mirpur was far from a minefield. Yes, it offered uneven bounce, but nothing beyond the reach of disciplined batting. What stood between us and victory was not the opposition but our own temperament, and our ability to endure pressure. Yet, when faced with the moment of reckoning, we unravelled. Again.  

Self-Destruction: A Familiar Story

Chasing in the fourth innings demands patience, application, and the ability to absorb pressure session by session. We squandered it all with reckless abandon. Tamim Iqbal chased a wide delivery he could have easily left alone, a shot as casual as it was costly. Junaid Siddique, too, fished outside off-stump—an act of surrender disguised as intent. Shahriar Nafees pulled a short ball straight into trouble, and Nasir Hossain misread a turning delivery with alarming naivety. Even Sohag Gazi, after his stellar bowling performance, tried to loft a shot in a crucial partnership with Riyad—an inexplicable decision when the game was delicately balanced.  

This collapse was not a tactical miscalculation or the brilliance of the opposition; it was self-destruction, pure and simple. The dreams of millions were dashed once more, and for what? Poor shot selection, lack of composure, and an inability to pace an innings when it mattered most.  

When Will We Learn?

This was not an isolated failure; it is part of a painful pattern that haunts Bangladesh cricket. Time and again, when victory seems within reach, we falter. The same mistakes—recklessness, impatience, and mental fragility—recur, as if etched into our cricketing DNA. Have we not yet learned how to win? Or worse, have we forgotten how to learn from defeat?  

It is in these moments of despair that the character of a team is forged. Will the Tigers carry this disappointment into the second Test in Khulna? Or will they retreat into complacency, content that the match lasted five days, their individual milestones intact?  

Test cricket is a privilege for Bangladesh—opportunities come sparingly, and each match offers a chance to silence the doubters who still question our right to compete at this level. But opportunities squandered become regrets, and regret is a bitter pill that Bangladesh fans have swallowed far too often.  

The Time for Change  

There is no shame in defeat, but there is shame in not learning from it. This is the moment to build character, to understand that cricket is not just about numbers on a scoreboard—it is about meeting expectations, honouring the hopes of a nation, and, above all, believing in oneself.  

Our cricketers need to feel the weight of this defeat—not to be crushed by it but to grow from it. The passion of Bangladesh’s fans is not a limitless resource; it needs to be nurtured with performances that reflect fight, resilience, and heart. These defeats are not just statistics—they are broken promises to the people who invest their dreams in the team.  

Victory is not elusive—it is within our grasp. But to seize it, we must first embrace the discomfort of failure. Only then can we stop murdering the dreams of those who believe in the Tigers, game after game. The time for excuses has passed. The time to learn how to win has arrived.  

Now, it’s up to the Tigers to rise—or fall—once more.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

The Fatigue of T20 and the Return of Test Cricket’s Timeless Charm

 

The cricketing calendar in October was brimming with action, but not all events left a lasting impression. While the ICC World Twenty20 in Sri Lanka dazzled fans with thrilling moments, the Champions League Twenty20 (CLT20) fell flat, struggling to capture the imagination of the cricketing public. What began with a flicker of promise ended in near silence—a victim, perhaps, of overexposure.  

Following a high-octane global tournament, another T20 exhibition less than 48 hours later felt excessive. Cricket fans—spoiled by the emotional highs of international contests—found it difficult to muster excitement for league cricket, however star-studded it may have been. October, saturated with back-to-back games, left enthusiasts fatigued. The shortest format, celebrated for its immediacy and drama, paradoxically risked becoming mundane through oversaturation.  

But that restless lull will soon give way to something deeper and more rewarding. Test cricket, the game's most revered form, returns in November, bringing with it the promise of more nuanced narratives, rivalries steeped in history, and performances etched into memory. The stakes are higher, and the stage is grander. It’s no longer just about entertainment—it’s about legacy.  

The Kohli-Pietersen Clash: Fireworks Before the First Ball 

In India, anticipation is already thick in the air as England arrives for a blockbuster Test series. The verbal sparring has begun, with former England captain Michael Vaughan igniting a war of words, promptly countered by Virat Kohli’s characteristic defiance. The mind games hint at the storm to come—both on and off the field.  

All eyes will be on Kevin Pietersen, whose return to the Test arena adds a layer of intrigue. His form will be pivotal in shaping England’s fortunes, for a Pietersen in full flow is as entertaining as he is destructive. However, taming India in their own den is a different beast altogether. The warm-up game was a subtle prelude, with Yuvraj Singh’s surprise five-wicket haul signalling the threat of India’s spinners. If England falters against spin—a familiar Achilles’ heel—the tour could turn nightmarish for them.  

This series also carries a weight of nostalgia, as it may mark the beginning of the end for the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. The Master Blaster’s future hangs in the balance, and the question looms: does he have one final masterpiece left? November might offer us the answer.  

South Africa vs Australia: Thunder Down Under

Meanwhile, on the southern front, another epic awaits. South Africa and Australia, two heavyweights of modern cricket, are set to renew their fierce rivalry. Their previous encounter in South Africa was an unforgettable spectacle, featuring everything from stunning collapses to defiant resistance, capped with electric fielding. Now, as these two giants prepare to face off again, the stakes are even higher.  

South Africa enters the series as the favourite, boasting a formidable lineup in both batting and bowling. But Australia’s reputation for resilience can never be underestimated. They thrive in adversity, turning contests into battles of sheer will. Even when outgunned on paper, the Aussies remain a dangerous proposition.  

This series promises to be a rare delight for connoisseurs of fast bowling—a dwindling art in modern cricket. Expect thunderbolts from both sides, as some of the finest pacers in the world take center stage. The series is more than just a contest; it celebrates Test cricket’s finest virtues—intensity, grit, and craftsmanship.  

West Indies vs Bangladesh, Sri Lanka vs New Zealand: More than Just Side Stories?

November’s action doesn’t stop there. On the quieter shores of Test cricket, Bangladesh and West Indies, along with Sri Lanka and New Zealand, will clash. Although the odds heavily favour the visitors—West Indies and Sri Lanka—there is room for surprises. Bangladesh must channel the same energy that powered their white-ball resurgence to avoid being overrun by a confident West Indian side.  

New Zealand, similarly, faces an uphill battle on Sri Lankan pitches, where local spinners are known to weave webs of deception. If the Kiwis and the Tigers can summon grit and fight, these series might offer moments of unexpected brilliance. Otherwise, it could be a one-sided affair, with the gulf in quality too wide to bridge.  

The Rhythm of Test Cricket: A Month to Savor

November promises cricket and a revival of the game’s most cherished elements. After the breathless chaos of T20s, Test cricket offers a slower, more deliberate rhythm—a journey rather than a sprint. It’s a reminder that the game’s essence lies not merely in the spectacle of boundaries and sixes, but in the long-drawn battles between bat and ball, where every session matters and every mistake carries weight.  

Fasten your seatbelts; November is set to reignite the cricketing world. From the tactical chess match between Kohli and Pietersen to the clash of titans between South Africa and Australia, and the quieter yet meaningful tussles in the subcontinent—this is cricket at its finest. Not fleeting entertainment, but a testament to skill, endurance, and character. And in Test cricket, the fire burns longer and brighter.

 Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Bangladesh Cricket Coach Dilemma: Can Ian Pont Be Considered?

Bangladesh’s cricketing journey with foreign coaches has often been a tale of high expectations and bittersweet realities. The latest chapter of this narrative unfolded when Richard Pybus, who was expected to elevate the Tigers to new heights, declined to continue as head coach. His departure came at a critical juncture, just ahead of Bangladesh's upcoming series against the West Indies, starting November 13. Pybus’s exit undoubtedly leaves the Tigers at a crossroads, but it also offers a moment for reflection and an opportunity to find the right leader who can truly connect with the team and the nation.

Coaching in the subcontinent is no ordinary task. Beyond the technical nuances of the game, foreign coaches must navigate the complexities of culture, expectations, and the deep emotional ties that fans have with their cricketing heroes. Bangladesh, in particular, demands more than just a tactician at the helm. The next coach must be a mentor, a friend, and someone who understands the heartbeat of the nation—a nation of 160 million people who live and breathe cricket, celebrating the team’s triumphs with unbridled joy and suffering its defeats with a profound sense of loss.

The coach must be more than an outsider brought in for expertise. He must embrace the unique culture of Bangladesh, connect with its people, and understand the value that cricket holds for a nation where the sport transcends boundaries. Without such an understanding, even the most experienced and technically proficient coach may falter, unable to grasp what cricket truly means for a population that sees the Tigers as an embodiment of hope and pride.

Among the potential candidates, one name stands out - Ian Pont. His previous tenure as Bangladesh’s bowling coach and his role in the domestic circuit has endeared him to both players and fans alike. Pont has not only proven his technical abilities but has also demonstrated a deep affinity for Bangladesh’s cricketing culture. He is not just a foreign coach parachuted in to do a job; he has become a friend to the nation, someone who understands the dynamics of the game in Bangladesh and its intricate first-class cricket structure.

What sets Pont apart is not merely his coaching resume, though it is impressive. Having served as the Netherlands’ bowling coach, assistant head coach, and consultant for Haryana in the Ranji Trophy, as well as being involved with Essex and Northamptonshire in England, Pont’s global experience is vast. He has coached in three ICC World Cups and is widely regarded for his insights into fast bowling. Yet, his expertise is not limited to bowling; as a former batting all-rounder with a respectable first-class career, Pont’s understanding of the game is holistic. His two books—*The Fast Bowler’s Bible* and *Coaching Youth Cricket*—have further cemented his reputation as a thinker and educator of the sport, with his work even being recommended by the ECB.

But beyond these credentials, Pont’s greatest asset is his connection to Bangladesh. His ability to adapt to the culture and form genuine relationships with the players and the community is invaluable. Unlike many foreign coaches who struggle to adapt to the complexities of subcontinental cricket, Pont has already demonstrated that he understands not just the technical requirements but also the cultural nuances that shape the Bangladesh cricket team. This makes him a rare blend of professionalism and emotional intelligence, crucial qualities for the success of a team that thrives on collective spirit and unity.

Bangladesh cricket is at a critical juncture. The Tigers need a coach who can do more than refine technique or devise strategies. They need someone who can build a cohesive unit, foster a sense of belonging, and guide the players through the pressures of international cricket with empathy and understanding. Ian Pont, with his extensive experience, his success in Bangladesh, and his genuine connection to the country, seems to be the perfect candidate. He embodies both the professionalism required to succeed at the highest level and the personal touch needed to resonate with players and fans alike.

In the end, cricket is more than just a game in Bangladesh; it is a source of national pride, a unifying force. And in Ian Pont, the Tigers may have found not just a coach but a true ally who can lead them forward with both heart and skill.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Decline of Fast Bowling’s Artistry: A Crisis of Modern Cricket

Fast bowling was once the beating heart of cricket’s spectacle—an art form where speed, aggression, and guile converged to forge thrilling contests. From the searing pace of Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Curtly Ambrose, to the relentless hostility of Dennis Lillee and Malcolm Marshall, these bowlers injected fear, excitement, and unpredictability into every match. But in today’s cricketing landscape, that magic is fading. Though we have the likes of Dale Steyn, Morne Morkel, James Anderson, and Steve Finn, these fast bowlers—while talented—lack the raw flamboyance of their predecessors. The reckless, all-guns-blazing adventurers have been replaced by meticulous mechanics.  

The Lost Charm of Fast Bowling: From Bravado to Calculation

Fast bowling used to be about more than wickets; it was about unsettling the batsman’s mind. Bowlers of the past thrived on psychological warfare—pounding in bouncers, swinging the ball both ways and setting elaborate traps. The batsman was not just an opponent but a target to be outwitted, outpaced, and often humiliated. Today’s fast bowlers, however, operate with more caution and precision. They are instructed to bowl within narrow channels—often the so-called “corridor of uncertainty”—and minimize risks to their bodies and careers.  

What we now witness is a diluted version of fast bowling, where bowlers focus on being “smart,” not adventurous. The result is cricket that has become increasingly one-dimensional—more about piling on runs than celebrating the duel between bat and ball.  

The Toll of Overloaded Schedules on Fast Bowlers

A primary reason for the disappearance of adventurous fast bowlers lies in the unrelenting cricket calendar. Players are required to participate in a dizzying number of matches—Tests, ODIs, T20s, and franchise leagues—leaving little time for rest and recovery. This workload creates a paradox: fast bowlers must perform at the limits of physical endurance, yet avoid injuries that could cut short their careers.  

Jeff Lawson once remarked that a fast bowler’s body endures extraordinary stress during every delivery. “At the moment of impact on the popping crease, up to twenty times the bowler's body weight is transferred through the leading foot, ankle, shin, knee, hip, and finally into the shoulder and arm.” Such physical toll means that even the most gifted bowlers often play through chronic niggles. But in an era of non-stop cricket, the accumulation of these injuries forces them to become risk-averse. Shortened run-ups, reduced pace, and predictable lines of attack become coping mechanisms to survive the demands of the modern game.  

The Impact of Twenty20 on Fast Bowling’s Decline  

The rise of T20 cricket has further altered the landscape, reducing fast bowling to a mere survival tool. In the shortest format, the focus shifts from aggression to containment. Fast bowlers are trained to avoid expensive overs, leading to defensive tactics such as slower balls, cutters, and yorkers. The emphasis is no longer on intimidating batsmen but on limiting damage.  

This shift has come at a cost. The exhilarating spectacle of watching a tearaway pacer bowl with venom and hostility is becoming increasingly rare. While spectators enjoy the sight of towering sixes from the likes of Chris Gayle, the real thrill lies in the confrontation—a bowler bouncing back with a delivery that sends shivers down the spine of the batsman. Sadly, modern cricket offers fewer such moments.  

Cricket’s Growing Imbalance: A Batsman-Dominated Game

The erosion of fast bowling’s influence has created an imbalance in cricket. The game has increasingly become a contest between batsmen, with bowlers often reduced to mere facilitators. High-scoring matches may appeal to casual audiences, but they lack the nuance and tension that make cricket truly captivating. When fast bowlers aren’t given the freedom to bowl with full intensity, the sport loses one of its most thrilling elements—the battle between bat and ball.  

The excitement of cricket isn’t just about runs; it’s about the drama that unfolds when a batsman is confronted by a fast bowler at the peak of his powers. The real joy lies in those rare moments when a bowler beats the batsman not just with pace, but with skill and audacity. Without this contest, cricket risks becoming monotonous—a predictable parade of runs with little to no suspense.  

Reviving the Art of Fast Bowling: Striking a Balance

The way forward lies in striking a balance between protecting fast bowlers and preserving the essence of the game. To nurture fast bowlers, the cricket calendar needs a reset. Ian Chappell’s suggestion offers a compelling blueprint: “Administrators need to formulate a cooperative approach to devise a workable schedule, one that is acceptable to the players and satisfies the financial needs of the game. Any grand plan should include the option of playing only two forms of the game, or retaining three versions but scheduling T20 cricket exclusively as a club-only franchise model.”  

Reducing the number of international fixtures would give fast bowlers the rest and recovery they desperately need, allowing them to maintain their pace and aggression without risking injury. Such a restructuring would also return Test cricket to its rightful place as the pinnacle of the sport, where fast bowlers can express themselves fully.  

 

A Glimmer of Hope: Emerging Talents and the Road Ahead

There are signs of hope on the horizon. In South Africa and Australia, young fast bowlers with raw pace and aggression are beginning to emerge. These players—if properly managed—have the potential to revive the lost art of fast bowling. But for that to happen, they must resist the temptation to “bowl smart” at the expense of their natural abilities. Fast bowling is not just about survival; it’s about daring to be extraordinary.  

Cricket administrators must recognize the importance of nurturing fast bowlers. If they continue to overload schedules and prioritize financial gain over the well-being of players, the sport will suffer. Cricket’s true magic lies in the balance between bat and ball—a balance that can only be restored if fast bowlers are given the freedom to perform at their best.  

Restoring the Heartbeat of Cricket 

Cricket today faces a dilemma. The relentless focus on financial gains and entertainment has compromised one of the sport’s core elements—the fierce, unrelenting pace of fast bowling. Without fast bowlers who bowl with abandon, cricket risks losing its soul.  

The sport doesn’t need more sixes or higher scores—it needs moments of magic, when a fast bowler defies the odds, overcomes his physical limits, and leaves the batsman gasping for breath. To make cricket truly adventurous again, administrators must take bold steps to preserve and promote fast bowling. Only then can cricket return to its roots—a game where every contest is a simmering battle between bat and ball, and where fast bowlers, not just batsmen, are celebrated as heroes.  

It’s time to revive the forgotten art of fast bowling. The game deserves nothing less.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Pele: The Myth, The Legend, and the Truth Behind His Greatness

Pele remains one of the most celebrated yet scrutinized figures in football history. His achievements, particularly his 1,000-goal record and three World Cup victories have been the subject of both admiration and skepticism. While some hail him as the greatest player of all time, others argue that his legacy is built on inflated statistics and favourable circumstances. This article aims to dissect these claims, providing a balanced view of Pelé's career and its broader significance in football history.

The 1,000-Goal Controversy: A Matter of Context

Understanding the Numbers

Pelé's official career tally is often cited as 1,282 goals, a number that includes matches beyond the official club and international competitions. FIFA, on the other hand, recognizes 757 goals in 812 competitive matches. Critics argue that many of Pelé's goals came in unofficial friendlies and exhibition matches, leading to the perception that his record is inflated.

The Nature of Friendly Matches in Pelé's Era

Unlike today, where friendly matches are often seen as casual affairs, exhibition games in Pelé's time were highly competitive. Santos, Pelé's club for most of his career, frequently toured Europe and played against top club teams, often defeating them. In these matches, Pelé scored over 140 goals against elite European competition, demonstrating that these games were far from meaningless.

The Political Factor: Why Pelé Never Played in Europe

A common argument against Pelé’s greatness is that he never proved himself in a European club league, unlike modern stars such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. However, this was not by choice. The Brazilian government declared Pelé a "national treasure," preventing him from transferring to a European club. Consequently, Santos relied on international tours to generate revenue, placing Pelé in direct competition with Europe’s best outside of official tournaments.

Pele’s World Cup Legacy: A Closer Look at His Impact

1958: The Teenage Sensation

At just 17, Pelé burst onto the world stage with six goals in four matches, including a hat trick in the semi-final against France and a brace in the final against Sweden. While midfield maestro Didi played a crucial role, Pelé’s clinical finishing and flair cemented his place as a prodigy destined for greatness.

1962: The Injury Setback

Pelé entered the 1962 World Cup as Brazil’s biggest star, but an early injury sidelined him for most of the tournament. Garrincha took centre stage, leading Brazil to victory. While Pelé's role in this triumph was limited, his early performances were still significant.

1966: The Target of Brutality

The 1966 World Cup is often overlooked in Pelé’s career, but it highlights an important aspect of his legacy. He was relentlessly fouled throughout the tournament, particularly by Portugal, leading to Brazil’s early exit. This era lacked the protective officiating seen in modern football, making Pelé's sustained success even more remarkable.

1970: The Maestro of Brazil’s Greatest Team

Widely regarded as one of the best teams in history, Brazil’s 1970 squad was stacked with talent, yet Pelé remained its focal point. With four goals and six assists, he directly contributed to a goal in every match. His performance in the final against Italy, where he scored the opening goal and set up Carlos Alberto’s iconic strike, cemented his status as a legend.

Beyond the Numbers: The Evolution of a Legend

The Complete Footballer

Pelé was more than just a goal scorer. He was a playmaker, a dribbler, and a visionary. Unlike pure strikers, he could create opportunities for others, as evidenced by his 355 recorded assists. His ability to score with both feet, his head, and from long range made him a versatile attacking force.

Football in Pelé’s Time vs. Modern Era

Sceptics often argue that football has evolved, making past players less relevant in discussions of greatness. However, the physicality and roughness of Pelé’s era posed unique challenges. He played in an age where defenders had fewer restrictions, referees offered less protection, and pitches were in poorer condition. Yet, he excelled despite these adversities.

 Conclusion: Pelé’s Enduring Legacy

The debate over Pelé’s greatness will persist, but the weight of evidence overwhelmingly supports his legendary status. Whether measured by goals, World Cup triumphs, or testimonials from his peers, Pelé’s impact on football is undeniable. He was not merely a great player; he was a transformative figure who shaped the sport's history.

In the words of Andy Warhol, if most icons get 15 minutes of fame, Pelé’s will last 15 centuries.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar