Echoes of Multan and Fatullah at Chattogram: A Tale of Hope, Heartbreak, and Lessons Learned

As the fifth day at Chattogram dawned, Bangladesh stood just 33 runs away from history. Sabbir Rahman, the calm debutant, was entrusted with steering the ship home alongside the tail-enders. Ninety overs lay ahead—a lifetime in cricketing terms—for the Tigers to exorcise the ghosts of Multan and Fatullah. Yet, within 19 minutes, dreams crumbled, and the hopes of a nation sank in the Bay of Bengal. 

The heartbreak was palpable. Another defeat, another haunting memory to join the ranks of Bangladesh’s near-misses. But amidst the wreckage, there were undeniable positives. This was no meek surrender; it was a battle, a statement of intent against one of the world’s most formidable Test teams. Bangladesh proved their mettle, testing England’s nerves and skills in a way few expected. 

As the caravan moves to Mirpur for the second Test, the task before Bangladesh is clear: to build on Chattogram’s promise and ensure that their spirited performance doesn’t remain an isolated spark. 

A Need to Move On: Learning from Chattogram

History warns of complacency. After the heroics at Fatullah against Australia in 2006, Bangladesh wilted in the second Test. Similarly, the defiant stand by Tamim Iqbal and Imrul Kayes at Khulna last year was followed by a dismal collapse in the next match against Pakistan. Both times, focus faltered, and hunger waned. 

This time must be different. The Chattogram defeat should not become a weight that drags the team down but rather a springboard for growth. Captain Mushfiqur Rahim’s post-match words struck a chord: 

"We tried what we could. Nobody expected Bangladesh to play in this manner after 15 months. We showed our character to a side like England. It’s not frustrating; it’s a learning experience."

This perspective is essential. Bangladesh’s next challenge is not just to replicate the fight but to elevate their game, correcting the errors that proved costly. 

Tactical Adjustments for Mirpur

1. Sabbir Rahman: A Star Rises

Sabbir Rahman’s debut was nothing short of remarkable. His calm, composed innings belied his inexperience, showcasing a batsman of immense promise. Too often in Bangladesh, Sabbir has been pigeonholed as a flamboyant limited-overs player. Yet, his Chattogram performance revealed a batsman with refined technique, exquisite timing, and the maturity to play grounded, risk-free strokes. 

For Mirpur, Sabbir should be promoted to number five. Shakib Al Hasan, while an all-round genius, can thrive lower in the order as a finisher and counter-attacker at six or seven. Sabbir’s elevation would add stability to the middle order, allowing Mushfiqur and Shakib to play their natural games without undue pressure. 

2. Strengthening the All-Round Core

Mehedi Hasan’s emergence as a bowler of substance has added a new dimension to Bangladesh’s attack. However, his batting, though promising, isn’t yet reliable enough for the number eight position. To bolster the lower order, Bangladesh should consider an all-rounder like Soumya Sarkar or Mosaddek Hossain. 

Soumya’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him an ideal fit at eight. His medium-pace bowling can offer crucial support in keeping one end tight, while his batting has the potential to provide the late-order resistance often needed in tight contests. 

3. A Singular Focus on Pace

Bangladesh’s pace-bowling cupboard remains sparse, necessitating careful resource management. At Chattogram, Kamrul Islam struggled to make an impact, his lack of aggression and belief starkly evident. Mirpur could be the stage for Subashis Roy, a bowler with a proven track record in domestic cricket and the hunger to seize his chance. 

Bangladesh might also consider fielding only one specialist pacer, with Soumya Sarkar serving as a part-time seamer. This would allow the team to focus on their spinners, who are better equipped to exploit Mirpur’s conditions. 

Devising a Plan for Ben Stokes

Ben Stokes was England’s heartbeat at Chattogram. His controlled aggression with the bat and reverse swing with the ball turned the tide in England’s favor on multiple occasions. Neutralizing him will be critical. 

With the bat, Stokes has shown vulnerability against full, quick deliveries aimed at the stumps. Shakib Al Hasan’s quicker ball in the first innings exposed this weakness, and Bangladesh must persist with this strategy. With the ball, Stokes thrives on exploiting gaps in defence. Sabbir Rahman’s approach of staying back and behind the line offers a blueprint for countering his reverse swing. 

Chattogram’s Legacy and the Road Ahead

The Chattogram Test was more than just a cricket match—it was a crucible of resilience, a showcase of talent, and a reminder of the beauty of Test cricket. It forced Bangladesh to confront their limitations but also revealed its potential. 

As they head to Mirpur, the challenge will be to channel the lessons learned, staying focused, hungry, and united. This is an opportunity to prove that the fight at Chattogram was not a fleeting glimpse of greatness but the beginning of a new chapter in Bangladesh’s Test journey. 

Mirpur awaits. The ghosts of Multan and Fatullah can finally be laid to rest—but only if the Tigers roar with the same intensity that captivated the world at Chattogram.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Chattogram Test: A Masterclass in Cricketing Drama

 The Chattogram Test between Bangladesh and England came to a dramatic conclusion on the 82nd over of the final day. Ben Stokes, England’s indefatigable allrounder, delivered a good-length ball that darted into Shafiul Islam after pitching. The ball struck Shafiul’s front pad, and the appeal that followed was as emphatic as the umpire’s raised finger. Kumar Dharmasena, who endured a torrid match with his decisions, adjudged Shafiul out, reasoning that he was not offering a shot. Bangladesh’s review was in vain, and so ended one of the most thrilling Test matches of the year. 

This match was a kaleidoscope of cricketing excellence: breathtaking all-round displays by two of the game’s premier allrounders, Ben Stokes and Shakib Al Hasan; the promise of two exceptional debutants, Sabbir Rahman and Mehedi Hasan; and a pitch that became the silent protagonist of an unforgettable cricketing tale. 

The Chattogram Pitch: A Silent Hero

In today’s cricket, the idea of a “good pitch” is often reduced to a batsman-friendly surface where runs flow freely, with bowlers left to toil in frustration. Such surfaces inflate batting averages but come at the cost of Test cricket’s essence: the battle between bat and ball. These sterile pitches frequently yield dull draws or lopsided contests, raising questions about the future of the game. 

Yet, history tells us a different story. The most enthralling Test matches have often been contested on pitches that challenged batters and empowered bowlers. The Chattogram deck was one such surface—far from the modern ideal, but a perfect canvas for the artistry of Test cricket. 

This pitch had everything: bounce for the new-ball bowlers, turn for the spinners, and just enough unpredictability to keep batters second-guessing. As the match progressed, the surface slowed down, but not excessively. It demanded skill, adaptability, and precise technique from the batters. Careless footwork or a misjudged stroke proved costly, while disciplined batting was richly rewarded. 

Unlike the proverbial minefields, this deck was balanced—it didn’t outright favour bowlers, nor did it allow for freewheeling stroke play. Instead, it demanded that batters play each ball on merit, employing late adjustments and flawless footwork. For bowlers, it offered just enough to make them an integral part of the narrative. 

A Test of Skills and Mental Fortitude

The pitch’s character infused the match with drama, pushing players to their limits. It reduced reckless shot-making, forcing batters to focus on composure and calculated shot selection. It tested their ability to leave deliveries, rotate strikes, and build partnerships—hallmarks of classical Test batting. 

Bangladeshi fans, who often delight in boundary-laden innings, found themselves cheering for subtler moments of cricketing mastery. Sabbir Rahman’s singles and twos, Mushfiqur Rahim’s patience in leaving deliveries, and Tamim Iqbal’s restraint with big shots drew applause. Similarly, the crowd was captivated by England’s ability to rotate strikes during Ben Stokes and Jonny Bairstow’s vital partnership in the third innings. 

This shift in perspective among fans highlights a broader lesson: Test cricket’s allure lies not only in flamboyant shots but in its nuanced battles. The Chattogram pitch underscored the value of patience, resilience, and strategic gameplay—qualities that elevate the format above its shorter counterparts. 

The Call for Sporting Pitches

The match rekindled a debate about the role of pitches in preserving Test cricket’s relevance. As Sachin Tendulkar aptly observed, “The wickets need to change; they need to be more helpful for bowlers. In T20s, the greatest of bowlers are being reverse-swept. Three hundred is no longer competitive in ODIs. So there should be at least one format where bowlers have a better chance of executing their skills.” 

Tendulkar’s words resonate deeply in an era where batting often dominates. A true contest between bat and ball is the lifeblood of cricket, and pitches like Chattogram’s are critical to restoring balance. A track that challenges both batters and bowlers creates a narrative filled with tension, unpredictability, and moments of brilliance—everything that Test cricket should aspire to be. 

Preserving Test Cricket’s Soul

The Chattogram Test was a reminder of why this format remains the pinnacle of cricket. The pitch, meticulously crafted by Bangladeshi curators, played a pivotal role in this epic encounter. Its balanced nature enriched the contest, forcing players to adapt and innovate while captivating spectators with its twists and turns. 

As Test cricket faces challenges from shorter formats, pitches like these must become the norm rather than the exception. They hold the key to ensuring that the oldest format of the game not only survives but thrives in an era of instant gratification. 

In the end, the Chattogram Test wasn’t just a match; it was a celebration of cricket’s purest form—a tale where the pitch itself was a co-author of history.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Chattogram Test: A Story of Lessons Learned

After more than a year without playing a Test match, Bangladesh returned to the longest format, facing a seasoned England side. Despite the lengthy hiatus, the hosts fought valiantly, showing glimpses of resilience and growth. However, lingering regrets remain—this was a match they could have won, were it not for small yet significant lapses. 

One such moment occurred in the final stages of the game when England’s ring-field strategy entrapped debutant Sabbir Rahman. The field was cunningly set to tempt Sabbir into taking singles, a ploy designed not to target him but to isolate Taijul Islam, the less capable batter. This trap worked to perfection, as Sabbir failed to see through the tactic and fell into the snare. 

Criticism of Sabbir, however, must be measured. It was his first Test, and such nuanced strategies often elude even experienced players. Any other debutant might have made the same mistake. For Sabbir and the team, this was an invaluable learning experience, one that promises to refine their understanding of Test cricket’s subtleties. 

Silver Linings in Defeat

While the loss is disappointing, the Test also offered reasons for optimism. Bangladesh displayed notable improvements in batting discipline and tactical awareness—qualities often missing in their performances in the longer format. 

Historically, Bangladeshi batters have struggled in Tests due to an over-reliance on aggressive stroke play, often at the expense of staying at the crease. This impulsiveness has been a significant barrier to their progress. However, in Chattogram, a shift in approach was evident. 

The top-order batters showed admirable patience, focusing on survival and building partnerships through smart strike rotation. Against short-pitched deliveries, they moved expertly behind the line of the ball to defend. When faced with sharp turners, they used precise footwork to play the ball late, neutralizing the threat. 

These adjustments, previously absent from Bangladesh’s batting repertoire, signal a growing maturity. Such progress, though subtle, lays the foundation for long-term success in Test cricket. 

Chandika Hathurusingha: The Unsung Architect

Much of this transformation can be credited to coach Chandika Hathurusingha. Under his guidance, Bangladesh’s batters have begun to develop the patience and technique essential for Test success. His impact is evident, yet curiously underacknowledged by the mainstream media. Whether this reluctance stems from bias or oversight is unclear, but the coach’s influence cannot be overstated. 

Hathurusingha’s emphasis on technical and mental preparation has instilled a newfound confidence in the team. If this trajectory continues, Bangladesh will soon overcome the hurdles that have long plagued their Test cricket ambitions. 

A Lesson in Test Cricket’s True Nature

The Chattogram Test underscored that Test cricket is a battleground of attrition, strategy, and unyielding focus. It’s not merely about talent but about learning to adapt and thrive under pressure. Bangladesh showed they are capable of absorbing these lessons, proving that their potential in this format is far from exhausted. 

This defeat, though painful, is a stepping stone for a team still finding its footing in the demanding world of Test cricket. With continued introspection, better strategic planning, and the resolve to learn from setbacks, Bangladesh can look forward to a brighter future in the format that truly defines cricketing greatness. 

In the end, the journey matters as much as the destination, and Bangladesh’s journey in Test cricket, though challenging, is steadily moving in the right direction.

Thank You\

Faisal Caesar  

The True Test of Cricket: Bangladesh’s Struggle in the Purest Format

Test cricket—the very phrase carries an aura of endurance, skill, and relentless discipline. It isn’t merely a sport; it’s an art form that examines not just a team’s technique but its temperament, concentration, and character. Over five long days, teams are tested to their limits, often multiple times in a single session. This format is the cradle of greatness, where legends are born, and mediocrity is ruthlessly exposed. 

For Bangladesh, the journey in this hallowed arena has been fraught with challenges. Since being awarded Test status sixteen years ago, the Tigers have endured a tumultuous path. Unlike Zimbabwe, whose decline was largely shaped by internal discord, Bangladesh’s story is one of a slow struggle to meet the rigorous demands of the game’s longest format. Criticism has been a constant companion, yet despite the scepticism, they remain a part of the Test fraternity. On October 20, in Chittagong, Bangladesh is set to host England—one of the most formidable teams in world cricket—for a two-match Test series. 

A Tale of Two Formats

England, unsurprisingly, enters the series as overwhelming favourites. Their squad, brimming with seasoned professionals, is a stark contrast to Bangladesh's outfit. Yet, the interest in this contest stems from Bangladesh’s stellar performances in the shorter formats over the last year and a half. Since their breakthrough World Cup campaign in Australia and New Zealand, Bangladesh has emerged as a force in limited-overs cricket, their resurgence offering hope to other emerging cricketing nations. 

But herein lies the paradox: while their exploits in ODIs and T20s have been impressive, they do little to address the deficiencies in Test cricket. Success in the shorter formats, though rewarding, cannot mask the glaring gaps in a side’s ability to endure the rigours of five-day cricket. 

As the whites replace the coloured jerseys, Bangladesh finds itself stripped of its most dynamic pace options. Mashrafe Mortaza, Taskin Ahmed, and Rubel Hossain—bowlers who have thrived in the limited-overs arena—are either unavailable or unsuited to the demands of Test cricket. The absence of Mustafizur Rahman, sidelined by injury, further exacerbates the issue. 

Strength in Batting, Weakness in Bowling

A glance at the 14-man squad announced for the series reveals a familiar pattern. The top order, featuring stalwarts like Tamim Iqbal, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Shakib Al Hasan, inspires confidence. But as one reads further down the list, optimism gives way to concern. The bowling unit, conspicuously underpowered, remains the Achilles’ heel of this team. 

Shafiul Islam’s pedestrian medium pace, Taijul Islam’s struggling left-arm orthodox spin, and debutant Kamrul Islam Rabbi, whose first-class average of 40.89 hardly inspires fear, form the backbone of the attack. The burden on Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh’s talismanic all-rounder, is enormous. But expecting him to single-handedly take 20 wickets against a robust English batting lineup is unrealistic. 

The Defensive Mindset

Compounding the issue is Bangladesh’s defensive approach to Test cricket. Fielding teams with eight batters and three frontline bowlers has become a norm, the strategy centred on survival rather than victory. This mindset stymies growth, reducing Test matches to exercises in damage control rather than opportunities for competitive excellence. 

History has repeatedly shown that the most dominant Test sides—Australia in the late 1990s, and the West Indies in the 1980s—were built around formidable bowling attacks. A potent bowling unit, capable of consistently taking wickets, is the cornerstone of success in this format. Without it, no batting effort, however monumental, can secure victories. 

The ODI Conundrum

Ironically, Bangladesh’s rise in limited-overs cricket has, in some ways, hindered their Test progress. The spectacle of ODI and T20 success has overshadowed the grind of Test cricket, influencing young cricketers to prioritize the former. Role models like Taskin Ahmed and Rubel Hossain, whose skills are better suited to the shorter formats, further perpetuate this trend. 

Even within the cricketing establishment, there seems to be a tacit acceptance of mediocrity in Test cricket. The lack of investment in nurturing a versatile bowling attack reflects a shortsighted approach that prioritizes immediate results in ODIs and T20s over the long-term development of Test cricketers. 

The Road Ahead

As Bangladesh prepares to face England, the challenge is not just about competing with one of the best teams in the world but about redefining their approach to Test cricket. The English batting lineup, disciplined and relentless, will test the Tigers in ways they are rarely tested. Without a balanced and incisive bowling attack, Bangladesh’s strategy of relying heavily on batting depth is unlikely to succeed. 

Virat Kohli’s assertion that “a bowler wins you a Test match” rings particularly true for Bangladesh. Until their think tank places greater emphasis on nurturing quality bowlers and adopts a more positive approach to the format, their Test journey will remain an uphill struggle. 

Test cricket, after all, is a game of character—a format where teams earn their respect not by merely surviving but by fighting to win. For Bangladesh, the time has come to abandon defensive strategies, invest in their bowling, and embrace the true spirit of Test cricket. Only then can they hope to forge a legacy in the game’s most demanding format

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

A Tale of Strategy and Composure: England Triumphs Over Bangladesh in Chittagong

The third One-Day International (ODI) between Bangladesh and England in Chittagong carried the weight of anticipation and uncertainty. With the series delicately poised at 1-1 and heavy rains lashing the city for days, cricket fans braced themselves for potential disappointment. The weather threatened to overshadow what promised to be an enthralling decider, especially since England had declined to use the reserve day. Yet, fate smiled on the cricketing world as the rains ceased, and the toss unfolded amid roaring cheers, setting the stage for a battle of wits and skills. 

A Pivotal Toss and a Tactical Beginning

England's captain, Jos Buttler, demonstrated astute tactical awareness by opting to bowl first under overcast skies on a pitch offering bounce and carry. It was a decision rooted in pragmatism, as the track was expected to ease for batting as the game progressed. Bangladesh’s opening duo, Tamim Iqbal and Imrul Kayes, approached the innings with caution, adopting a traditional method of survival rather than capitalizing on the bounce. While their circumspection was understandable, it lacked the flair needed to seize the initiative against a disciplined English attack. 

Buttler’s foresight came into play as he exploited the subdued approach of Bangladesh’s openers. Ben Stokes’ clever cross-seam delivery to Kayes—paired with a fielder stationed strategically at short leg—proved to be the first masterstroke. Kayes’ misjudged flick epitomized how pressure can force errors, gifting England an early breakthrough. 

Tamim, on the other hand, found a rhythm and partnered with Sabbir Rahman to lift the scoring rate, unfurling a flurry of pugnacious strokes. However, England’s strategy was calculated: Buttler unleashed Adil Rashid, who baited Tamim with a loose delivery outside off. Tamim, in his aggressive intent, played a rash stroke and fell prey to the trap. The wicket highlighted England’s ability to outthink their opponents, even at the cost of conceding boundaries. 

The Middle Overs: Bangladesh Falters Under Pressure

Mahmudullah Riyad’s dismissal off a harmless long-hop underscored a frustrating trait of Bangladesh’s batting—impatience against mediocrity. Rashid’s ploy to serve occasional loose deliveries worked, as Bangladeshi batsmen repeatedly took the bait. Despite a brief revival by Sabbir and Mushfiqur Rahim, the innings lost momentum with the dismissal of Shakib Al Hasan, a pivotal moment engineered by England’s spinners. 

The latter stages saw Rahim rekindle his touch, anchoring the innings to a modest total. Yet, with only 249 runs on the board, Bangladesh found themselves 30-40 runs short on a track that demanded a stronger finish. 

England’s Clinical Chase

England’s response was a masterclass in composure and precision. Unlike Bangladesh, they prioritized strike rotation over flamboyance, ensuring the pressure of the required run rate never mounted. Ben Duckett emerged as the architect of the chase, showcasing technical prowess and an authoritative sweep shot that neutralized the Bangladeshi spinners. His ability to accumulate runs with deft placements was a testament to his maturity as a batsman. 

The hallmark of England’s approach lay in their temperament. Partnerships flourished even after dismissals, as incoming batsmen seamlessly adapted to the situation. The middle overs, often the Achilles’ heel for chasing sides, became a stage for England to solidify their grip on the game. They refrained from rash risks, opting instead for calculated aggression, a strategy that paid dividends as they eased to victory. 

Bangladesh’s Shortcomings: Lessons to Be Learned

Bangladesh’s performance, though spirited, revealed familiar flaws. Their spinners faltered by relying on turn rather than bowling a disciplined line and length. The inability to contain England’s singles and twos compounded their woes, with fielding lapses punctuating a lacklustre display. While Mashrafe Bin Mortaza’s late resurgence hinted at resilience, it was not enough to unsettle England’s determination. 

A Contest of Contrasts

The third ODI was a microcosm of contrasting philosophies. While England exuded professionalism and clarity of purpose, Bangladesh seemed to waver under pressure, undermining their potential. Buttler’s captaincy, bolstered by a collective effort from bowlers and batsmen, stood out as a template for modern limited-overs cricket. 

For Bangladesh, the match served as a reminder of the importance of adaptability and discipline, qualities they must hone to compete against the best. As the series concluded, it left fans with both moments of brilliance and lessons for the future—a testament to the enduring allure of cricket. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar