Shakib Al Hasan: The Flawed Genius

      

In the lexicon of sports, the term “genius” is frequently evoked, especially when discussing iconic figures like Lionel Messi and Sachin Tendulkar. For many fans and critics, the word seems almost synonymous with these athletes, conjuring images of unparalleled skill and saintly humility. The quintessential genius is often depicted as a gentle, composed individual—an archetype of grace under pressure. However, in the shadows of this saintly ideal lurk figures like Cristiano Ronaldo, Garrincha, Virat Kohli, and Shakib Al Hasan, whose narratives are steeped in controversy and complexity. These are the flawed geniuses—misunderstood individuals whose imperfections make them as captivating as their brilliance.

There exists a certain allure in the flawed genius, an excitement that surpasses the admiration reserved for their saintly counterparts. While the latter may garner respect and accolades, it is the flawed genius who invokes genuine affection and passionate allegiance from fans. This emotional connection stems from the unpredictable nature of their performances, which often carry the potential for both triumph and calamity.

In Bangladesh, Shakib Al Hasan embodies this dichotomy. Often overshadowed by the saint-like figure of Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, Shakib's brilliance is frequently eclipsed by the sensationalism of the local press, which thrives on controversy. This media narrative, fixated on Shakib's missteps, neglects to recognize the depth of his genius and the nuanced struggles he endures.

Shakib's behaviour, at times, is less than exemplary. He can resemble a petulant child in a toy store, reacting poorly when he feels slighted. Yet, despite these flaws, he remains a central figure in the consciousness of Bangladeshi cricket fans. Much like Cristiano Ronaldo, Shakib possesses the rare ability to transform arrogance into artistry with a single stroke of brilliance—an ability that eludes many of the more demure saints of the game.

One particularly telling moment occurred during a match against Australia at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka. With Bangladesh reeling at 10 for 3, Shakib emerged as a beacon of hope. The situation demanded a counterattack, and it was in this crucible of pressure that Shakib thrived. His elegant stroke play, reminiscent of Ian Botham's legendary innings against Australia in 1981, arrested the collapse, adding a vital 155 runs for the fourth wicket.

On the second day, Shakib’s bowling proved equally transformative. His well-pitched deliveries dismantled Australia’s innings, setting a challenging target of 264 runs. When Australia’s David Warner threatened to overpower Bangladesh, it was Shakib who once again turned the tide, trapping Warner lbw and triggering a remarkable collapse from 158 for 3 to 199 for 8—an echo of Imran Khan's iconic spell in 1982-83. In that moment, the flawed genius was on full display, guiding his team to a celebrated victory.

Moreover, Shakib’s ingenuity was evident during a 2015 encounter with MS Dhoni, where he successfully stifled the Indian captain’s famed composure. While Mustafizur Rahman garnered the headlines, it was Shakib's tactical acumen that proved pivotal, showcasing his ability to exert psychological pressure on even the calmest of opponents. 

This is the essence of Shakib Al Hasan’s genius—his capacity to perform when it matters most. There is an intrinsic beauty in his ability to defy expectations and rewrite narratives. One moment, he may appear lethargic, seemingly detached, but beneath that exterior lies a mind brimming with ideas—ideas capable of transforming despair into hope through sheer confidence and unparalleled skill. 

Watching Shakib bat in full flow or bowl with aggression is akin to witnessing nature's fury—a volcano erupting, a tempest churning at sea. His craft transcends technical precision; it morphs into a visceral experience that evokes awe and reverence, akin to the dance of a deity in the throes of creation and destruction.

To dislike Shakib is a choice, a personal sentiment grounded in his flawed humanity. However, the brilliance of his performances often compels a shift in perspective, forcing even the staunchest critics to acknowledge his genius. Shakib has long since blurred the lines between genius and insanity, a transformation sparked by the nurturing of local coaches who recognized his prodigious talent. This evolution has culminated in the Shakib we know today—a flawed genius whose impact on cricket and on the hearts of his fans is indelible.

Thank You
Faisal Caesar 

A Moment of Transcendence: Ronaldo’s Masterpiece That Silenced Turin

For a fleeting moment, the Allianz Stadium stood still. The noise of over 41,000 spectators fell into an almost reverent silence as they collectively struggled to comprehend what had just transpired. Then, in an extraordinary display of unity, applause erupted—not for Juventus, the home team, but for Cristiano Ronaldo, their rival. It was a moment that transcended the boundaries of loyalty, reminding us of the universal admiration that true sporting genius commands.

This wasn’t just another Champions League goal. It was a moment of sheer audacity and execution that would be immortalized in football history. Ronaldo’s overhead kick for Real Madrid against Juventus in the 2018 quarter-final wasn’t just a display of technical mastery; it was a rare convergence of athleticism, timing, and vision—a moment that encapsulated the essence of elite football.

The Build-Up: A Routine Turned Extraordinary

The sequence began innocuously. Dani Carvajal’s cross from the right appeared unremarkable, the kind of delivery defenders typically clear with ease. Yet, Ronaldo saw what others could not. His leap defied not only Juventus’ defense but also the limitations of human physics. Suspended mid-air, he adjusted his posture with uncanny precision, swiveling his hips and positioning his right foot for a strike that seemed improbable. From behind the penalty spot, he executed a scissor-kick volley that soared past Gianluigi Buffon, one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time.

This wasn’t just a goal; it was an artistic masterpiece, an act that elevated football to the realm of poetry. Buffon, renowned for his reflexes and composure, could only watch as the ball flew past him—a testament to the sheer brilliance of Ronaldo’s execution.

The Reaction: When Rivalry Gives Way to Respect

What followed was as remarkable as the goal itself. The Juventus faithful, renowned for their passionate support, rose in unison to applaud Ronaldo. In the fiercely tribal world of football, such moments are exceedingly rare. The applause wasn’t just for the goal but for what it represented: the beauty of sport at its highest level. It was a reminder that true brilliance transcends competition and unites even the most partisan spectators.

The Numbers Behind the Genius

Ronaldo’s career is often defined by his staggering statistics, and this match was no exception. At 33 years old, he was defying the natural decline of age, scoring 25 goals in his last 14 games for club and country. He had found the net in every Champions League tie that season, leading the competition with 14 goals. Against Juventus alone, he had scored eight times in six appearances, a record that underscored his dominance.

Yet, this moment wasn’t just about numbers. It was about the quality of execution, the audacity to attempt such a move, and the athleticism required to make it successful. The goal condensed the essence of Ronaldo’s career: relentless ambition, unmatched physicality, and a flair for the extraordinary.

Impact on the Match and the Opposition

For Juventus, the goal was a psychological blow that compounded their on-field struggles. Already trailing after Ronaldo’s early opener, their task became insurmountable following this moment of brilliance. Paulo Dybala’s dismissal for a reckless high boot further weakened their resolve. Marcelo’s goal to make it 3-0 sealed the tie, leaving Juventus with little hope for the return leg.

Juventus’ defensive structure, usually their greatest strength, was dismantled by Real Madrid’s incisive play. Ronaldo’s movement off the ball, particularly during his first goal—a darting run to the near post—was a masterclass in positioning and anticipation. His second goal, however, was less about tactics and more about pure individual brilliance.

A Legacy-Defining Moment

Even in a career filled with iconic moments, this goal stood apart. Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo’s coach and a legend in his own right, described it as “one of the most beautiful goals in the history of the game.” It wasn’t just the execution that set it apart but the context: a Champions League quarter-final against a formidable opponent in their own stadium.

This goal exemplified why football is often called "the beautiful game." It reminded fans and players alike that sport, at its best, is a celebration of human potential. Ronaldo’s overhead kick was not merely a goal; it was a moment that transcended the sport itself, becoming a symbol of what is possible when skill, determination, and creativity converge.

Conclusion: The Artistry of Sport

Cristiano Ronaldo’s overhead kick against Juventus was more than just a highlight reel moment. It was a testament to the artistry of football, a reminder of why fans around the world are drawn to the game. In an era often dominated by statistics and tactics, this goal served as a reminder of the magic that makes football timeless. For Ronaldo, it was another chapter in a career defined by brilliance. For the rest of us, it was a moment to cherish, a fleeting glimpse of perfection in the ever-changing landscape of sport.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar 

A Battle for the Ages: New Zealand’s Grit and Glory Against England

Test cricket, with all its glorious unpredictability, has long been a theatre of drama, passion, and perseverance. On Day 5 in Christchurch, New Zealand scripted a chapter that will resonate through the annals of cricket history—a tale of defiance and resilience, where the improbable was achieved against formidable odds. 

The morning began with Kane Williamson, New Zealand's modern-day colossus, falling to Stuart Broad for a golden duck on the very first ball—a rare blemish on an otherwise stellar career. For the first time, Williamson found himself dismissed on the first ball of a Test match, and New Zealand were reeling, losing two wickets in as many deliveries. The dream of ending a 34-year home-soil drought against England seemed to evaporate into the cold Christchurch air. 

At 162 for 6, England’s bowlers, spearheaded by the indefatigable Broad and James Anderson, seemed poised to snatch a series-levelling victory. The script appeared written: another triumph for England, another heartbreak for the Kiwis. Yet, as cricket so often reminds us, its narrative can turn on the smallest moments of defiance. 

Colin de Grandhomme: Cricket’s Maverick 

Enter Colin de Grandhomme, New Zealand’s unpredictable all-rounder, a man who embodies counter-intuition on the cricket field. De Grandhomme’s approach is as exasperating for opponents as it is captivating for spectators. With a devil-may-care attitude, he counter-punched England’s charge, wielding his bat with unorthodox flair. 

Twice in the match, he mocked conventional wisdom, refusing to yield under pressure. He struck with defiance in the first innings and dug in with purpose in the second. Together with Ish Sodhi, he laid the foundation for what would become an extraordinary seventh-wicket partnership, turning a collapse into a symbol of resistance. 

Ish Sodhi: A Portrait of Patience 

Ish Sodhi’s contribution to the game cannot be overstated. Once viewed primarily as a limited-overs specialist, the leg-spinner proved his mettle in the game’s most demanding format. Patience was his mantra, and survival his art. The milestone of fifty runs was irrelevant to him; what mattered was grinding out the overs, resisting England’s relentless assault, and keeping the dream alive. 

It was Test cricket at its purest—runs accumulated not through flourish but through sheer grit. Sodhi’s ability to weather storm after storm exemplified the mental fortitude required at the highest level. His partnership with de Grandhomme was a masterclass in determination, a refusal to succumb to England’s reputation and resources. 

Neil Wagner: The Unexpected Hero 

And then there was Neil Wagner, a bowler renowned for his hostile spells targeting batsmen’s ribcages, now wielding the bat in defence of New Zealand’s hopes. Wagner’s innings, a paltry seven runs off 103 balls, was a masterpiece in defiance. It was not pretty, but it was effective—a testament to the idea that even the most unheralded skills can shine under pressure. 

Against England’s all-star bowling attack—Broad, Anderson, Mark Wood, and Ben Stokes—Wagner’s stoic stand embodied the very essence of Test cricket. He did not merely survive; he inspired, becoming a linchpin in New Zealand’s improbable resistance. 

Breaking the Jinx 

For over three decades, England had tormented New Zealand on their home turf. Breaking a 34-year jinx is no ordinary feat—it requires more than skill; it demands passion, endurance, and a deep-seated belief in the impossible. 

Sodhi and Wagner batted through 31 overs, frustrating England’s bowlers and defying logic. As Sodhi finally punched the air in celebration, embraced by his jubilant teammates, the weight of history lifted. This was more than a cricketing achievement; it was a victory for the human spirit, a triumph of perseverance over adversity. 

The Victory of Test Cricket 

England, crestfallen and battered, could only watch as New Zealand celebrated. They had thrown everything into the contest but were denied by a team that simply refused to yield. It was one of those rare occasions where a hard-fought draw felt as triumphant as a win. 

The match in Christchurch was not just a victory for New Zealand; it was a resounding endorsement of Test cricket. At a time when the game’s longest format is often dismissed as archaic in the face of shorter, glitzier formats, this contest served as a reminder of its enduring relevance. The drama, tension, and sheer unpredictability of Test cricket remain unmatched. 

As the circus of T20 cricket prepares to take centre stage, this match stands as a counterpoint—a celebration of the craft, character, and endurance that make Test cricket the pinnacle of the sport. New Zealand’s triumph against England was not merely a win; it was a testament to the soul of the game.  

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Elusive Hunt for Bangladesh’s Next Cricket Coach: A strategic gamble

  

The search for Bangladesh’s next head coach drags on, casting a cloud of uncertainty over the nation’s cricketing ambitions. Nearly two weeks ago, Paul Farbrace, England’s esteemed assistant coach, walked away from an offer many thought he would accept, derailing what seemed like a conclusive decision by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). What had appeared to be a done deal now feels like a mirage, further extending a frustrating saga that tests both the board's patience and the faith of Bangladeshi cricket enthusiasts.  

At the heart of this unfolding drama lies not just the pursuit of a coach but the quest for stability, identity, and resurgence—concepts that Bangladesh has wrestled with since the departure of Chandika Hathurusingha. His tenure, though not without friction, remains etched in memory as a transformative era. The Sri Lankan tactician not only shaped a promising side but unlocked Bangladesh’s potential, ushering in victories over cricketing giants and lifting the team's standing from underdog status to credible contenders. His exit, though, left behind an unresolved void—a reminder of the fleeting nature of success in sports, where every triumph is met with new questions and challenges.  

A Coach’s Conundrum: Leadership Amid Complexity  

In Bangladesh, cricket is more than just a sport. It serves as both a reflection and reinforcement of national identity, embodying pride, passion, and at times, emotional turbulence. Any coach stepping into this environment inherits not just a team but the aspirations of a nation. It’s a position that demands more than technical acumen; it calls for emotional intelligence, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to thrive under relentless scrutiny—from fans, media, and even the players themselves.  

The collapse of negotiations with Farbrace exposes the intricacies of managing expectations in a cricketing ecosystem as volatile as Bangladesh’s. With the BCB still exploring names from various corners of the cricketing world—Anil Kumble, Tom Moody, and even Rahul Dravid cropping up more as wishful rumours than real contenders—the process feels like both a search and a gamble. The notion that Gary Kirsten might join as a long-term consultant offers a glimmer of hope, yet even that remains speculative, another thread in the tangled narrative of Bangladesh cricket’s uncertain future.  

Lessons from History: Revisiting the Hathurusingha Template  

The BCB’s struggle to appoint a head coach is eerily reminiscent of the lead-up to Hathurusingha’s appointment in 2014 when scepticism surrounded the arrival of the relatively unknown tactician. Yet, history vindicated that decision. Hathurusingha’s tenure, alongside bowling coach Heath Streak, marked a golden chapter for Bangladesh cricket—one defined by resilience, self-belief, and milestone victories. Under their guidance, Bangladesh matured, shedding its underdog identity to challenge the titans of the game. Yet, as with many sports narratives, the end was marred by misunderstandings and an ungraceful parting.  

The challenges the BCB faces today are not just about replacing Hathurusingha but about finding someone capable of building on his legacy. The right coach must be a unifying force, someone who understands not just the mechanics of cricket but also the rhythms of Bangladeshi life—a place where cricket isn’t merely a game but a shared dream.  

The Interim Era and Walsh’s Dilemma  

For now, Courtney Walsh—a legend of West Indian cricket—holds the interim reins. However, his tenure is marked by ethical quandaries, particularly following high-profile incidents involving Shakib Al Hasan and Nurul Hasan during tours of Sri Lanka. Walsh, a man steeped in the ethos of fair play, may find it difficult to reconcile such controversies with his vision of cricket as an honourable pursuit. Whether he remains in the role for the long haul is uncertain, given the cultural and moral complexities he must navigate.  

Walsh’s predicament highlights the delicate nature of managing a team in transition. The BCB needs more than a caretaker; it needs a visionary who can foster discipline without stifling creativity, nurture unity without suppressing individuality, and cultivate resilience without sacrificing joy.  

Potential Candidates: Architects of a New Chapter  

Several names come to the fore as potential architects of Bangladesh’s next chapter. Ian Pont, for instance, brings with him both tactical depth and familiarity with Bangladesh cricket. Having worked with fast bowlers like Rubel Hossain and Shafiul Islam, Pont’s ability to develop raw talent could be instrumental in reviving Bangladesh’s pace attack—a key area of concern. His experience in the Bangladesh Premier League adds another layer of credibility, as he understands both the pressure and politics that accompany the job.  

Coaches like Adam Griffith and Wade Seccombe, who have successfully built high-performing domestic teams in Australia, present another intriguing option. Their emphasis on nurturing talent and fostering a positive team environment aligns with what Bangladesh needs. Similarly, Greg Shipperd’s reputation for simplifying the game and addressing individual weaknesses could bring much-needed consistency to a team that often fluctuates between brilliance and mediocrity.  

Yet perhaps the most compelling choice is Richard McInnes, the coach who nurtured the golden generation of Bangladeshi cricketers, including Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Tamim Iqbal. McInnes’s deep understanding of Bangladesh’s cricketing culture makes him an ideal candidate to steer the team through this transitional phase. His potential appointment would represent not just a return but a renewal, a way to build on the foundation laid by Hathurusingha and reclaim the essence of what made that era special.  

Fame or Fit: The Perils of Star Power  

As the BCB weighs its options, it must tread carefully. In recent years, cricket boards around the world have often been seduced by the allure of high-profile names, hoping that star power will translate into success. However, coaching in a country like Bangladesh requires more than a stellar resume. It demands adaptability, patience, and the ability to thrive in an environment where the pressures are as emotional as they are professional.  

The temptation to hire a coach from cricketing powerhouses like England or Australia is understandable—these nations have produced some of the finest minds in the sport. However, the BCB would do well to remember that success lies not in importing a template but in finding someone who can tailor their methods to Bangladesh’s unique needs.  

A Race Against Time  

The clock is ticking, and Bangladesh’s cricketing calendar shows no signs of slowing down. The BCB must act swiftly but with wisdom. The mishandling of coaches in the past has left scars—both on the team’s morale and on the board’s reputation. Yet within this challenge lies an opportunity: to rewrite the narrative, to move beyond past mistakes, and to find a coach who sees in Bangladesh not just a challenge but a calling.  

For the right candidate, coaching Bangladesh could be a transformative journey that offers professional fulfilment and personal growth. The road ahead is arduous, but the tangible and intangible rewards are immense. Cricket, after all, is not just a game here; it is a shared heartbeat, a source of joy and unity, and the right coach will not merely guide the Tigers but inspire them to dream anew.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Unnecessary Shame: A Fan’s Lament Over Australian Cricket’s Fall from Grace

 

Cricket has always been more than a game. It is a tapestry of skill, spirit, and integrity, a contest that tests not just talent but character. Over the years, Test cricket has stood as the ultimate expression of these values, offering moments of high drama and quiet resilience that no other format can replicate. Even as the Indian Premier League dazzles with its razzmatazz and the Nidahas Trophy captures imaginations in Bangladesh, the ongoing Test series between Australia and South Africa has been a reminder of the unique allure of the longer format. 

Yet, this series, brimming with high-class performances and riveting battles, has been marred by an act that has left the cricketing world in shock. The events of Cape Town, where Cameron Bancroft was caught tampering with the ball under the apparent guidance of captain Steve Smith and coach Darren Lehmann, have sullied not only the match but the reputation of Australian cricket itself. 

For fans like me, who have cherished Australian cricket since the days of Allan Border, this is a bitter pill to swallow. 

A Legacy of Toughness, Tarnished 

The Australian cricket team has long been synonymous with hard, uncompromising cricket. Under Border, and later Mark Taylor, Steve Waugh, and Ricky Ponting, the team built a culture of resilience and aggression. They sledged, they attacked, and they played to win, but they played fair. Their brand of cricket was not without controversy, but it was always underpinned by a certain respect for the game’s core principles. 

As a fan, I have often defended their sledging and mental intimidation, framing it as part of their competitive spirit. But the events of Cape Town have left me, and millions of others, without a defence. This was not a momentary lapse or "brain fade," as Smith himself once infamously described another controversy. This was a premeditated act, confessed openly in the post-match press conference, that struck at the heart of the sport’s integrity. 

Leadership Vacuum Exposed 

The scandal has revealed a glaring void in Australian cricket: the absence of genuine leadership. Steve Smith, once heralded as the heir to Australia’s proud captaincy lineage, has proven to be its weakest link. His failure to instill a sense of ethics and responsibility within his team is now painfully evident. 

Darren Lehmann, too, must shoulder the blame. Coaching a team like Australia, constantly under the microscope of fans, critics, and media, demands more than tactical acumen. It requires a commitment to upholding the values that the team represents. The "Australian way" was never about cutting corners; it was about playing hard and fair. 

As journalist Richard Hinds aptly observed, “That leadership vacuum is now starkly exposed, both in the abject lunchtime ball-tampering plot and the ham-fisted attempt to cover up Bancroft's actions even after they had been exposed by the TV cameras.” 

This failure of leadership has implications far beyond the immediate scandal. It tarnishes the image of Australian cricket as a whole, casting doubt on the integrity of the players and eroding the trust of fans who have long believed in their team. 

A Shadow Over Skill 

One of the greatest tragedies of this incident is how it casts a shadow over Australia’s genuine cricketing brilliance. In this series, Mitchell Starc has been a master of reverse swing, using the old ball to devastating effect. Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Marsh have also played pivotal roles, executing their skills with precision and discipline. 

Reverse-swing is an art, honed through practice and patience, and Australia showcased this art with aplomb in the first two Tests. But now, every achievement is viewed through a lens of suspicion. The mastery of Starc and his peers, once a source of admiration, is now tainted by doubt. 

This is the cruel irony of cheating: it not only undermines the act itself but also diminishes the legitimate efforts that preceded it. 

A Fan Betrayed 

For a fan, the sense of betrayal is profound. Cricket is more than a game; it is a relationship built on trust. Fans invest their time, emotions, and loyalty in their teams, believing in their ability to uphold the spirit of the game. When that trust is broken, the impact is deeply personal. 

The confession by Smith and Bancroft, while commendable in its honesty, does little to repair the damage. The integrity of Australian cricket has been compromised, and its proud legacy stained. 

As Hinds eloquently noted, this scandal affects not just the national team but the entire cricketing ecosystem: the juniors who look up to these players as role models, the club cricketers who form the grassroots of the game, and the global audience that holds Australian cricket to the highest standards. 

The Way Forward 

Australian cricket now stands at a crossroads. The path ahead will require more than damage control; it will demand a fundamental reckoning with the values that the team represents. Leadership must be redefined, not just in terms of tactics but in the broader context of ethics and responsibility. 

For fans like me, there is only one thing to say: that was unnecessary, mate. This wasn’t the Australian way, and it never should have been. The road to redemption will be long, but it begins with a return to the principles that once made Australian cricket a source of pride. 

Thank You
Faisal Caesar