The Night of Nerves at Mirpur: Mashrafe's Masterclass

The Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium witnessed one of its most pulsating encounters as Bangladesh narrowly edged Afghanistan in a nerve-jangling thriller. The match, a testament to the capriciousness of cricket, ended dramatically with Dawlat Zardan falling to Taskin Ahmed’s last-ball full toss. For the first time in ODI history, both teams’ innings concluded on the final delivery, leaving the Mirpur crowd oscillating between anxiety and euphoria. 

Afghanistan’s spirited chase tested every sinew of the Bangladeshi side. A spellbinding third-wicket stand between Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi sapped the Tigers of momentum, threatening to take the game away. However, it was Mashrafe Mortaza’s indefatigable spirit, astute leadership, and tactical brilliance that turned the tide in Bangladesh’s favour. 

Rahmat and Shahidi: A Partnership of Grit 

The Shah-Shahidi partnership was a masterclass in composure. With an almost Test-match temperament, the duo rotated the strike, absorbed pressure, and steadily built Afghanistan’s chase. Their resolve dampened the energy of the Bangladeshi fielders, dropping shoulders and silencing the crowd. At one point, it seemed inevitable that Afghanistan would orchestrate a historic chase. 

But cricket, as it so often does, rewarded resilience and audacity. Enter Mashrafe Mortaza, the captain who refused to yield to despair. 

Mashrafe Mortaza: The Architect of Victory 

1. Aggression in Adversity

While lesser captains might have adopted a defensive strategy, Mashrafe chose to attack even when the partnership between Shah and Shahidi was flourishing. He moved his fielders strategically—pushing the third man up, engaging a wide slip, and placing a short midwicket to lure an error. 

This aggressive field setting bore fruit in the 41st over when Shakib Al Hasan, bowling with guile and precision, tempted Rahmat Shah into a misjudged lofted shot. The breakthrough was pivotal, dismantling Afghanistan’s stronghold and reigniting Bangladesh’s hopes. 

2. Shouldering Responsibility

Mashrafe’s personal contribution with the ball underlined his leadership. When the likes of Taskin Ahmed and Rubel Hossain faltered early on, Mashrafe took it upon himself to stem the flow of runs. Battling fatigue but not short of resolve, he bowled with deceptive variations, dismissing key players like Mohammad Nabi and Najibullah Zadran at crucial junctures. 

In the seventh over, after conceding a mammoth six to Mohammad Shahzad, Mashrafe immediately countered with a slower off-cutter that dismantled Shahzad’s aggressive momentum. This dismissal set the tone for the rest of the match, showcasing Mashrafe’s mental fortitude and tactical acumen. 

3. Faith in Bowlers

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Mashrafe’s captaincy was his unwavering faith in Taskin Ahmed and Rubel Hossain, both of whom struggled in the early overs. Mashrafe persisted with Taskin despite his inconsistency, entrusting him with the critical deathovers. Taskin rewarded this faith spectacularly, dismissing Nabi with a clever slower delivery in the 48th over. The wicket was the turning point, halting Afghanistan’s charge and shifting the momentum back to Bangladesh. 

Taskin, buoyed by the breakthrough, went on to claim four wickets, including the decisive last-ball dismissal of Zardan. Similarly, Mashrafe’s decision to reintroduce Rubel in the 49th over was a gamble that paid off, as Rubel struck to dismantle Afghanistan’s tail. 

4. The Shakib Factor

Mashrafe’s judicious use of Shakib Al Hasan was another hallmark of his captaincy. Recognizing Shakib’s ability to build pressure with an immaculate line and length, Mashrafe deployed him at key moments. Shakib’s interventions were instrumental in breaking partnerships and stalling Afghanistan’s momentum, particularly in the 41st and 47th overs. 

Lessons for the Tigers 

Despite the victory, the match exposed vulnerabilities in Bangladesh’s game. Inconsistent bowling, lapses in fielding, and a fragile middle order will need urgent attention. Yet, the grit displayed by the Tigers under pressure is a promising sign. With coach Chandika Hathurusingha and Mashrafe at the helm, the team has the leadership necessary to address these shortcomings. 

The Bigger Picture 

Beyond the boundaries of the cricket field, this victory symbolized something deeper. It was a celebration of resilience—a reaffirmation that Bangladesh’s spirit, much like its cricket team, can weather storms and emerge stronger. 

As the Mirpur crowd roared in celebration under the floodlights, it wasn’t just a victory for the Tigers; it was a victory for the nation, a collective sigh of relief, and a reminder of the enduring power of hope.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar  

Cricket in Dhaka: A Symphony of Resilience and Hope

As the searing heat of the day yields to a mellow warmth, the sprawling city of Dhaka begins its nightly transformation. The colours of the evening soften the cityscape, but the cacophony of its restless streets remains unrelenting. Amid this urban symphony, the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur emerges as a glowing beacon. The floodlights pierce the dusky sky, their brilliance shaming the fading light of day. 

Something is different in Mirpur tonight. The usual hum of the city fades under the buzz of excitement around the stadium. Last week, this area was quieter, the atmosphere subdued. Now, it thrums with anticipation. 

The Rhythm of Cricket: A Balm for a Wounded Nation 

A gentle breeze carries the unmistakable music of cricket—chants, cheers, and the occasional beat of a drum. This melody unites a nation divided by its daily struggles. It offers solace, instils hope, and provides a reprieve from the grind of life. For Bangladesh, cricket is more than a game; it is a celebration of resilience, a collective embrace of joy that transcends socioeconomic divides. 

The memory of the tragic events of July 1, 2016, at Gulshan, still lingers. The attack shook the nation’s spirit, replacing Dhaka’s usual vibrancy with an uneasy quiet. Life went on, but the rhythm was lost, replaced by a hesitant march forward. The announcement of a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, however, rekindled a flicker of hope. Cricket, once again, became a medium for healing and renewal. 

The Afghan Challenge: A Litmus Test for Bangladesh 

The Afghan cricket team, one of the most dynamic rising forces in international cricket, brings with it both promise and peril. Players like Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, and Mohammad Shahzad have earned reputations as match-winners, capable of turning games on their heads. Afghanistan’s historic victory over Bangladesh two years ago remains fresh in the memory of cricket fans, a reminder that no opponent can be taken lightly. 

For Bangladesh, this series is far more than a routine cricketing contest. It carries profound significance on multiple fronts: 

1. A Test of Security and Global Perception

The attack at Gulshan cast a shadow over Bangladesh’s ability to host international events safely. Australia’s cancelled tour and doubts over England’s willingness to visit underscored the growing concerns. This series against Afghanistan is a chance for Bangladesh to demonstrate its readiness to provide a secure environment for players and fans alike. Successfully hosting this series will not only bolster confidence in the country’s security apparatus but also reaffirm its place on the international cricket map. 

2. A Defiant Response to Terrorism

Cricket in Bangladesh is more than a sport; it is a statement. It declares that no act of terror, no matter how heinous, can disrupt the spirit of its people. A well-attended, spirited series against Afghanistan would serve as a powerful rebuke to those who seek to sow fear and chaos. It would underscore that the love for cricket, for life itself, is stronger than the darkness of terror. 

3. A Platform for Emerging Talent

The series offers an invaluable opportunity to test the next generation of Bangladeshi cricketers. The Under-19 World Cup showcased a wealth of talent waiting in the wings, and now is the time to integrate these young players into the national setup. The Afghanistan series provides the perfect stage to assess their mettle under the spotlight of international cricket. 

4. Reviving the Rhythm of the Tigers

Since the Asia Cup and the World Twenty20, Bangladesh cricket has been in a lull. The absence of international fixtures has left fans longing and players in need of competitive action. This series is a chance for the Tigers to regain their rhythm and shake off any rust. For the fans, it is a long-awaited celebration—a return to the electrifying highs of cheering for their team on home soil. 

Cricket as a Metaphor for Renewal 

As the sun dips below the horizon, the stadium lights will take centre stage, and the people of Bangladesh will gather not just to watch cricket but to reclaim their sense of joy and unity. The floodlit arena will become a symbol of resilience, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, life can and must go on. 

Cricket, with its universal appeal, will once again prove its power to heal, inspire, and unite. The ODI series against Afghanistan is not just a sporting event; it is a celebration of life itself—a poignant reminder that no matter how dark the times, the human spirit is always capable of finding light. 

It is time for Bangladesh to celebrate, to cheer, and to believe once more. The Tigers are back, and with them returns the hope of a brighter tomorrow.  

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Evolution of First-Class Cricket in India: Building a Legacy of Excellence

The journey of First-Class cricket in India began humbly in 1864 with a match between Madras and Calcutta, setting the stage for an enduring tradition. However, it was the 1892–93 season that formally marked the advent of First-Class cricket in the Indian subcontinent, with matches between the Europeans and Parsees, and later, a series involving Lord Hawke's English team, including a historic game against "All India" from January 26 to 28, 1893. 

Over time, this nascent structure grew into a robust and competitive domestic system, evolving into a cradle for some of India's greatest cricketing legends. From CK Nayudu’s pioneering days to the modern brilliance of Virat Kohli, the foundation of Indian cricket’s international success has been laid by its well-equipped First-Class framework. 

From Individual Brilliance to Team Dominance 

The transformation of Indian cricket from an individual-centric approach to a collective, team-oriented mentality began in earnest under Sourav Ganguly's leadership. The iconic NatWest Series victory in 2002 at Lord’s was not just a moment of triumph but a harbinger of change. No longer satisfied with being "home-track bullies," Ganguly’s men demonstrated their capability to compete—and win—on the global stage. 

This victory sparked a revolution in Indian cricket, instilling an ambition to dominate across formats and conditions. Alongside this cultural shift came a focus on strengthening the domestic circuit to ensure a steady pipeline of talent. Unlike in the past, where brilliance was often limited to a few individuals, this era saw the development of a collective aspiration for excellence, laying the groundwork for a formidable bench strength. 

The Importance of a Strong Bench 

In cricket, the best teams in history, such as the West Indies of the 1980s and the Australian juggernaut of the 1990s and 2000s, thrived on the depth of their talent pool. Their benches featured players capable of seamlessly stepping into the roles of legends like Viv Richards, Malcolm Marshall, or Steve Waugh, ensuring continuity and sustained success. 

India's current ambitions echo this philosophy. With a packed calendar involving New Zealand, England, Bangladesh, and Australia, the focus has shifted to preparing a bench that can perform under any circumstances. The roadmap, as articulated by the BCCI and coach Anil Kumble, emphasizes "horses for courses" selections, identifying players suited to specific formats and conditions. 

Emerging Stars: The Future of Indian Cricket 

India's domestic system is brimming with talent ready to shoulder the demands of international cricket. Players like Nathu Singh and Shardul Thakur bring raw pace and discipline, qualities essential for success in modern Test cricket. Meanwhile, Kuldeep Yadav, a rare left-arm chinaman, offers a unique dimension to India’s bowling attack. His ability to consistently pick wickets has already made him a standout in domestic tournaments like the Duleep Trophy. 

On the batting front, Shreyas Iyer and Karun Nair represent the new generation of technically sound yet aggressive players. Iyer’s phenomenal Ranji Trophy season, amassing 1321 runs at an average of 73.38, underscores his readiness for the international stage. Similarly, Sanju Samson and Sheldon Jackson, known for their versatility and temperament, exemplify the blend of talent and hard work required to succeed in the game’s longest format. 

Addressing the Opening Conundrum 

India’s opening partnership has long been a point of contention, with inconsistent performances from the likes of Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul. Promising alternatives like Mayank Agarwal, who scored 420 runs at an average of 84 in the Duleep Trophy, offer hope. Unmukt Chand, too, has worked diligently to revive his career, signalling his readiness for higher challenges. 

The Role of Experience 

Even seasoned campaigners like Gautam Gambhir, Robin Uthappa, and Dinesh Karthik continue to dominate the domestic scene, creating healthy competition between veterans and younger players. This dynamic mirrors the West Indies and Australia during their golden eras, where such competitiveness fueled excellence. 

Challenges in Selection 

Despite the depth of talent, India’s selection policies remain a topic of debate. The continued investment in players like Rohit Sharma for Test cricket, despite limited success, raises questions about the utilization of available resources. The key to achieving global dominance lies in recognizing and nurturing talent through strategic exposure, rather than persisting with players who fail to adapt to the rigours of Test cricket. 

A Blueprint for Global Supremacy 

For India to establish itself as the world’s best team, it must leverage its deep bench strength while maintaining a robust domestic structure. This involves not only identifying and grooming talent but also ensuring they are tested under challenging conditions. The lessons of First-Class cricket—patience, adaptability, and technical rigour—remain invaluable in shaping players capable of excelling at the highest level. 

The road to greatness demands a fine balance between ambition and preparation. As India continues to build its arsenal of talent, the echoes of its domestic legacy will undoubtedly resonate in its quest for global supremacy.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

First-Class Cricket: The Unsung Guardian of Test Cricket's Legacy

In the tapestry of cricket’s evolution, one constant has stood firm against the tides of change—first-class cricket. The game, once considered immutable, has undergone dramatic transformations over the past century. From the introduction of one-day internationals in the 1960s to the revolution of Twenty20 cricket in the early 2000s, cricket has adapted, thrived, and reinvented itself. Yet, amidst this whirlwind of innovation, the bedrock of the sport—first-class cricket—remains irreplaceable. 

Had Rev. Holmes, who in 1893 proclaimed that "there is no fresh ground to be explored" in cricket, lived to see the modern game, he might have eaten his words with the humility of a batsman who misreads a googly. Cricket’s evolution has been relentless, driven by both the lure of commercial success and the demands of an ever-changing audience. But as the allure of instant gratification grows, the value of patience, discipline, and technique nurtured in first-class cricket has become more critical than ever. 

The Rise of Instant Cricket: A Double-Edged Sword

The advent of limited-overs formats, particularly T20 cricket, has undoubtedly broadened cricket's appeal. The spectacle of big hits, flashing lights, and packed stadiums has captivated audiences globally, injecting unprecedented wealth into the game. For players, the financial rewards and fame of T20 leagues are irresistible, often overshadowing the less glamorous grind of first-class cricket. 

However, this surge in popularity has come at a cost. The prioritization of instant cricket has diminished the importance of the longer formats, particularly Test cricket, which demands a depth of skill and temperament that cannot be developed overnight. The rise of players selected for Tests based on their limited-overs exploits has further muddied the waters, leading to results that often expose the pitfalls of such an approach. 

The Case Studies: Hales, Maxwell, and Shahid

Consider Alex Hales, a prolific striker in limited-overs cricket. Hales’ ability to bludgeon bowlers in T20 and one-day matches earned him a Test cap as Alastair Cook’s opening partner. But as the colour of his kit changed, so did his fortunes. His struggles against the moving ball, inability to guard his off stump, and lack of footwork were glaring in Test cricket—deficiencies masked by the frenetic nature of shorter formats. 

Glenn Maxwell, another gifted hitter, exemplifies the same paradox. A maestro in T20 cricket, capable of inventive and audacious strokes, Maxwell's Test performances have been inconsistent, plagued by technical and mental lapses. His flamboyance, so effective in limited-overs games, often falters under the scrutiny of Test cricket’s probing discipline. 

In stark contrast is the story of Mohammad Shahid, a medium pacer from Bangladesh. Shahid’s relentless accuracy and ability to maintain pressure stem from his toil in domestic cricket’s unglamorous grind. His selection for Tests was based on first-class credentials rather than limited-overs performances, and his success against South Africa, where he tied down the batsmen and created opportunities for his team, vindicated that approach. 

The Essence of First-Class Cricket

First-class cricket is more than a proving ground; it is a crucible that forges the skills essential for success in Test cricket. The four-day format demands patience, resilience, and the ability to adapt. A batsman learns to leave deliveries outside off stump, build innings, and balance caution with aggression. A bowler learns to adjust his length, vary his pace, and sustain spells in adverse conditions. 

Unlike the adrenaline-driven environment of limited-overs cricket, first-class matches test the player’s temperament and fitness over extended periods. It instils habits that become second nature—adjusting to deteriorating pitches, handling reverse swing, and countering spin in its most potent form. 

This is why players like Damien Martyn, Matthew Hayden, and Justin Langer reached their zenith after years of toil in the Sheffield Shield. Even legends like Imran Khan and Rahul Dravid attribute their mastery to the lessons learned in first-class cricket. Imran’s transformation from an average pacer to a world-class fast bowler was forged in the rigorous demands of county cricket, while Dravid’s moniker “The Wall” was built on the foundation of discipline honed in domestic cricket. 

The Mirage of Instant Success 

The modern trend of selecting Test players based on limited-overs performances is a dangerous gamble. In T20 cricket, a mistimed shot or a misfield can go unnoticed amidst the chaos. In Tests, such lapses are magnified, often determining the outcome of a session, if not the match. Test cricket is unforgiving, exposing even the slightest technical or mental frailty. 

Exceptions like Virender Sehwag or AB de Villiers, who thrived across formats, are rare. Their brilliance is an anomaly, not a template. For most players, the path to Test success is paved through hard-earned lessons in first-class cricket. 

 The Road Ahead: Preserving the Backbone of Cricket

As cricket continues to evolve, the role of first-class cricket must not be diminished. It is the foundation upon which the sport’s most enduring format—Test cricket—is built. Without it, the game risks losing its soul, succumbing to the transient allure of instant gratification. 

Colin Powell’s words resonate deeply: “Excellence is not an exception; it is a prevailing attitude.”For cricket to sustain its excellence, it must continue to invest in first-class cricket, ensuring that it remains the breeding ground for legends. 

The game of glorious uncertainty does not need bits-and-pieces cricketers. It needs artists and artisans, players whose craft can withstand the scrutiny of time and the rigours of the longest format. For that, the value of first-class cricket must not just be remembered but celebrated.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Wahidul Ghani and the Genesis of a Dream: The Ashraful Saga

Cricket, in its essence, is more than just a game; it is a tapestry of dreams, aspirations, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. For Wahidul Ghani, cricket was not merely a passion—it was his lifeblood, an unwavering commitment to a vision for Bangladesh cricket. Though his own international career was fleeting—limited to a solitary appearance against Pakistan in the 1988 Asia Cup—Ghani’s true legacy was etched not on the field but in the hearts and futures of young cricketers he nurtured. 

A Brief Glimpse on the Field

When Wahidul Ghani donned the Bangladeshi colours against Pakistan, he faced the might of batsmen like Ramiz Raja, Salim Malik, and Ijaz Ahmed. Though his leg-spin couldn’t trouble the formidable opposition, the Tigers showed resilience, managing to play out their 45 overs. For Ghani, that match marked the end of his international journey, but it was only the beginning of his enduring contribution to the game. 

Building Foundations: The Birth of Ankur

Post-retirement, Wahidul Ghani dedicated himself to grassroots cricket, founding *Ankur*, a coaching school unlike any other in Bangladesh. Charging no fees, Ghani’s school became a beacon of opportunity for aspiring cricketers who lacked financial resources but brimmed with talent. He was more than a coach—he was a mentor, a father figure, and a symbol of discipline and hard work. Through his selfless dedication, he laid the groundwork for the future of Bangladeshi cricket. 

Among his many proteges, one would go on to immortalize Ghani’s name in the annals of cricket history. 

The Prodigy: Mohammad Ashraful

In 1995, an 11-year-old Mohammad Ashraful entered Ankur. Barely able to hold a bat, the frail boy immediately caught Ghani’s eye. There was something extraordinary in Ashraful’s technique, temperament, and innate love for the game. Ghani nurtured the young prodigy, instilling in him the confidence to overcome physical limitations with sheer determination and skill. 

By 2000, Ashraful had graduated to the Bangladesh U-19 team, participating in the Under-19 World Cup. Critics dismissed him as too small and too fragile for international cricket, but Ghani stood steadfast, shielding his pupil from detractors. The master’s faith in his disciple would soon be vindicated most spectacularly. 

The Test of Fire: Sri Lanka, 2001

In September 2001, Bangladesh faced Sri Lanka in Colombo as part of the Asian Test Championship. The Tigers, still in their infancy as a Test team, were battered in their opening match against Pakistan and arrived in Colombo to widespread criticism. The match seemed destined to be another mismatch, a forgettable footnote in cricketing history. 

Sri Lanka declared on a towering 555 for 5, reducing Bangladesh to a paltry 90 in the first innings. By the end of Day 2, Bangladesh had clawed their way to 100 for 4, with 17-year-old Ashraful unbeaten on 4. Few could have imagined that the following day would script a tale of defiance that would echo for years. 

A Boy Becomes a Legend

Ashraful began cautiously on Day 3, defending with maturity and rotating the strike. As he grew in confidence, he unfurled strokes of sublime quality. Against Chaminda Vaas, Sri Lanka’s wily seamer, he played with assuredness, while against the wizardry of Muttiah Muralitharan, he showcased audacity rarely seen in players twice his age. 

Using nimble footwork, Ashraful neutralized Murali’s guile, dancing down the track to loft him over the infield and pulling with precision when the length demanded. His ability to read Murali’s variations—particularly the feared doosra—astonished onlookers. 

By the time he reached his century with a boundary off Vaas, Ashraful had not only etched his name in the record books as the youngest Test centurion on debut but also silenced critics questioning Bangladesh’s place in Test cricket. 

A Mentor’s Reward

Though Sri Lanka won the match, Ashraful’s 114 was the definitive highlight. Even Muralitharan, who claimed the Man of the Match award, was so impressed that he gifted his prize money to the young Bangladeshi batsman—a gesture that symbolized the respect Ashraful had earned. 

For Wahidul Ghani, it was a moment of profound pride. The boy he had nurtured, the talent he had believed in, had vindicated his life’s work. Ashraful’s innings was not just a personal triumph but a beacon of hope for Bangladeshi cricket, proving that with grit and guidance, the nation could dream of greatness. 

A Story of Triumph and Tragedy

While Ashraful’s debut century remains one of the most iconic moments in Bangladesh’s cricketing history, his career trajectory did not fulfil its early promise. Inconsistencies and controversies marred his later years, leaving fans to wonder what might have been. Yet, his debut knock stands as a timeless reminder of the possibilities that lie within untapped potential. 

Legacy of a Dreamer

Wahidul Ghani’s legacy is not measured by his personal achievements but by the lives he transformed. He was a dreamer who believed in the future of Bangladeshi cricket when few did. His contribution, embodied in moments like Ashraful’s century, laid the foundation for the rise of a cricketing nation. 

Today, as Bangladesh continues its journey on the international stage, the echoes of Ghani’s efforts and Ashraful’s bravery resonate in every victory. Their story reminds us that behind every moment of glory lies the quiet labour of visionaries and dreamers who dared to believe. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar