The Asia Cup Controversy: A Tale of Power, Politics, and Discontent

Bangladesh’s captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, often lauded for his amicable demeanour, appeared visibly irked while addressing reporters on Wednesday. Known for his warmth and candid interactions with the media, Mashrafe’s sudden shift to a more sombre and critical tone caught many off guard. The source of his frustration? A mid-tournament alteration to the Asia Cup’s Super Four schedule—a decision seemingly orchestrated to benefit one team: India.

The decision by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), heavily influenced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), raised questions about fairness and transparency. Typically, schedule changes in a tournament of such magnitude are necessitated by extraordinary circumstances. In this case, however, the revisions appeared strategically aligned with India’s interests, leaving Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh disadvantaged.

The Dubious Revisions 

Under the new schedule, India was guaranteed all its matches in Dubai, irrespective of group standings. This decision starkly contrasted with the logistical challenges imposed on other teams. Pakistan, for instance, faced a gruelling itinerary: travelling to Abu Dhabi for a game against Afghanistan, returning to Dubai for a match against India, and then flying back to Abu Dhabi for their final encounter with Bangladesh. 

Bangladesh’s Mashrafe expressed his discontent unequivocally:

“It is very disappointing! Basically, what has happened is that we were made the second team in Group B even before we played the last game. We came here with a plan... But this morning we heard that we are already Group B runners-up regardless of whether we win or lose tomorrow. So, of course, it is disappointing.” 

His sentiments were echoed by Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed, who highlighted the physical toll of constant travel in the searing heat. “Even if India loses all their games, they will be here,” he noted. “Things should be even for all teams, whether that’s India, Pakistan, or anyone else.”

Commercial Interests Over Cricketing Spirit 

The BCCI’s rationale for the changes was rooted in commercial priorities. The Dubai International Stadium, with its 25,000-seat capacity, surpasses Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Stadium by 5,000 seats—a significant factor given the financial stakes of marquee clashes like India-Pakistan. As one unnamed BCCI official admitted, “BCCI is only getting the gate sales, and how can we compromise on 5000 seats?” 

While the financial justification may hold merit from a business perspective, it underscores a troubling reality in modern cricket: the growing influence of money over the spirit of the game. The disparity in scheduling not only compromised the fairness of the tournament but also tarnished the image of the BCCI as a steward of the sport.

The Larger Picture 

The BCCI’s dominance in world cricket is undeniable, stemming from its financial clout and strategic acumen. Yet, with great power comes greater responsibility—a principle that appears increasingly overlooked. The decision to prioritize commercial gains over equitable treatment reflects a broader trend of arrogance and insensitivity, eroding the democratic values India as a nation holds dear.

This episode serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between power and accountability. The BCCI, as a leading institution in global cricket, must recognize that its actions set a precedent. Respect and trust are earned not just through financial might but also through fairness, professionalism, and adherence to the principles of sportsmanship.

A Call for Introspection 

The Asia Cup scheduling debacle has left a sour taste, not just for the teams affected but also for fans who expect the highest standards of integrity in the sport. The ACC and BCCI must introspect and address the growing perception of bias and high-handedness. Cricket, after all, is more than a business—it is a passion, a unifier, and a testament to fair competition. 

In the end, it is not the size of the stadiums or the gate receipts that define the greatness of a tournament, but the spirit of equality and respect it upholds. It is time for cricket’s powerhouses to remember this simple truth and act accordingly.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar        

Why Do I Watch Cricket? The Courage, Commitment, and Stories That Transcend the Game

 I have often asked myself: why do I watch cricket? The answer has evolved over time. Initially, it was sheer passion—a raw and unrelenting love for the game. But as I delved deeper, I realized passion alone cannot sustain a lifelong connection with a sport. 

Cricket, like life, is a tapestry woven with threads of intelligence, skill, and courage. To truly fall in love with the game, one must appreciate how these elements converge to create moments that transcend the boundaries of the sport itself. Among these, courage often stands out as the defining trait that elevates cricket from a mere contest to a theatre of human resilience and spirit. 

Courage Under Fire: The Centenary Test of 1977

The Centenary Test of 1977 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground epitomized the courage cricket demands. It was a gladiatorial contest dominated by fiery fast bowlers like Dennis Lillee, Max Walker, Bob Willis, and Chris Old. The stakes were high, the egos massive, and the atmosphere electric. 

Amid this cauldron of pressure, Rick McCosker, Australia’s opener, suffered a brutal blow to the jaw from a Bob Willis bouncer. His jaw fractured, and McCosker was forced to retire hurt, leaving Australia with one less batsman for the second innings. Yet, in a moment that has since become folklore, McCosker returned to the crease, his face swathed in bandages, to add a crucial 54-run partnership with Rodney Marsh. 

The sight of McCosker, battered but unbroken, galvanized his team. His courage was contagious, inspiring his teammates to fight tooth and nail. Lillee, embodying the same indomitable spirit, ensured McCosker’s bravery did not go in vain. Australia won the Test by the same margin as the first-ever Test in 1877—a fitting tribute to the game’s enduring spirit. 

Courage in Modern Cricket: Tamim Iqbal’s One-Handed Heroics

Cricket’s history is replete with such tales of courage, but few resonate more with Bangladeshi fans than Tamim Iqbal’s unforgettable act of bravery during the 2018 Asia Cup. 

Bangladesh was in disarray against Sri Lanka, their innings teetering on the brink of collapse. Tamim, struck on the wrist by a vicious Suranga Lakmal bouncer, was forced to retire hurt. His injury was severe enough to rule him out of the tournament. Yet, as Bangladesh’s innings neared its end, with only one wicket in hand and three overs to play, Tamim walked out to bat—this time with one hand. 

The image of Tamim, his left hand bandaged and rendered useless, standing at the crease was a testament to the courage that cricket so often demands. His presence was not about scoring runs but about making a statement: that no matter how dire the circumstances, commitment and courage can inspire a team to rise above adversity. 

Tamim’s selfless act ignited something extraordinary in Mushfiqur Rahim. Until that point, Mushfiq had batted with composure, building partnerships and anchoring the innings. But with Tamim at the other end, Mushfiq switched gears, unleashing a ferocious onslaught that added 32 runs in the final three overs. His unbeaten 144 not only rescued Bangladesh from the brink but also left Sri Lanka psychologically shattered. 

The Anatomy of Courage in Cricket

What compels a cricketer to risk personal injury for the team’s cause? Courage in cricket is not merely about physical bravery; it is a complex interplay of mental fortitude, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to the team. 

Rick McCosker’s return to the crease in 1977 and Tamim Iqbal’s one-handed stand in 2018 share a common thread: they were acts of defiance against fear and adversity. They were moments that transcended individual glory, becoming symbols of collective resilience and inspiration. 

In Tamim’s case, his act silenced critics who had previously questioned his commitment. For years, his laid-back demeanour had drawn scepticism, but that night, he redefined himself in the eyes of his countrymen. His courage was not just about facing Lakmal’s bouncers but about lifting the spirit of a beleaguered team. 

The Heart of the Game

Why do I watch cricket? Because it offers stories like these—stories of courage that inspire, of intelligence that fascinates, and of skill that leaves one in awe. Cricket is not just a game of runs and wickets; it is a celebration of the human spirit, a stage where the extraordinary emerges from the ordinary. 

As Bangladesh triumphed over Sri Lanka that night, it was not just a victory on the scoreboard but a triumph of courage and commitment. It was a reminder that in cricket, as in life, adversity is not the end but the beginning of something remarkable. 

Tamim Iqbal’s one-handed stand and Mushfiqur Rahim’s heroic innings encapsulated the essence of cricket: a game where courage and commitment can turn the tide, where the improbable becomes possible, and where the human spirit shines brightest under the most challenging circumstances.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Relentless Resolve of Alastair Cook: A Testament to Grit and Patriotism

 When the English cricket caravan arrived in India after a bruising tour of Pakistan, the team’s morale was already teetering. Having been undone by the brilliance of Inzamam-ul-Haq and the raw pace of Shoaib Akhtar, England faced yet another daunting challenge on Indian soil. To compound their woes, they were an under-strength squad, missing stalwarts like Michael Vaughan, Simon Jones, and Ashley Giles. The sudden departure of an in-form Marcus Trescothick further left the English camp reeling, forcing them to summon a 21-year-old Alastair Cook from the West Indies. 

On March 1, 2006, under the oppressive heat and palpable tension of Nagpur, Cook strode to the crease with Andrew Strauss. The pitch was a spinners’ paradise, and the conditions were suffocating. Yet, Cook exhibited a maturity and poise far beyond his years, crafting a debut innings that would define the ethos of his career: resilience, determination, and an unyielding commitment to his team. A half-century followed by a debut century against the guile of Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh set the tone for England’s fightback, culminating in a hard-fought series draw. 

The Genesis of a Fighter

Cook’s Nagpur heroics were the prologue to a career that spanned over a decade, scripting more than 12,000 Test runs, 33 centuries, and countless moments of defiance when England’s fortunes hung by a thread. His story was not one of flamboyance or ostentation but of quiet determination and an unrelenting drive to serve the cause of his "Mother England." 

The Ashes series of 2010-11 exemplified Cook’s ethos. Ricky Ponting’s Australia were on a warpath, determined to reclaim their dominance. England’s pride was at stake, and in the first Test at Brisbane, Cook produced an innings for the ages. His unbeaten 235, spanning over ten and a half hours, not only saved the match but also shattered Sir Donald Bradman’s record for the highest score at the Gabba. The innings ignited a spark that carried England to their first Ashes series victory in Australia since 1986-87, with Cook amassing a staggering 766 runs at an average of 127.66. 

Captaincy Amid Chaos

In 2012, England cricket was in disarray. The "textgate" controversy involving Kevin Pietersen and Andrew Strauss’s resignation as captain left the team in turmoil. Cook, the natural heir to Strauss, inherited a fractured dressing room and a team bereft of confidence. The task ahead was Herculean: a Test series against India in their own backyard, where England had not won since 1984. 

After a humbling defeat in the first Test, Cook’s response was nothing short of monumental. Leading from the front, he compiled three centuries in four matches, including a masterful 190 in Kolkata. England defied expectations to win the series 2-1, a triumph that not only restored their pride but also solidified Cook’s reputation as a leader of immense resolve. 

The Twilight of a Titan

As Cook’s career progressed, the burdens of captaincy and relentless scrutiny began to take their toll. The 2013-14 Ashes in Australia saw England decimated by Mitchell Johnson’s ferocious pace, and Cook, unable to stem the tide, bore the brunt of the criticism. The subsequent fallout with Pietersen and a dip in personal form tested Cook’s resilience like never before. 

Yet, true to character, Cook orchestrated another comeback. In 2014, with his captaincy under fire, he led England to a series victory against India. The following year, he reclaimed the Ashes and spearheaded a historic series win in South Africa. Cook’s ability to inspire his team, even in the face of adversity, became the hallmark of his tenure. 

A Graceful Exit

By 2018, the cracks in Cook’s impenetrable armour began to show. Bowlers who once struggled to breach his defences now found success, and his famed back-foot play faltered. Despite the criticism, Cook remained the consummate professional, putting his team first even as his own form declined. 

At 33, Cook made the difficult decision to retire. For a player who had always prioritized his country’s needs, the decision was as much about preserving England’s future as it was about acknowledging his own limitations. In his final Test at The Oval, Cook bid farewell with a century, a fitting tribute to a career defined by grit, grace, and unwavering loyalty. 

Legacy of a Patriot

Alastair Cook was not merely a cricketer; he was a symbol of England’s resilience. His technique, though not flawless, was underpinned by a mental fortitude that few could rival. Whether batting for hours to save a match or rallying his team in times of crisis, Cook embodied the spirit of a fighter. 

As England moves forward, they will miss the calm assurance Cook brought to the crease, the quiet leadership that steadied the ship in turbulent waters, and the patriotism that fueled his every innings. Alastair Cook’s story is one of grit, sacrifice, and an unshakable commitment to the honour of his "Mother England."

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Leonidas da Silva: The Magician Who Redefined Brazilian Football

 

“He’d help break down racial boundaries, helped bring about professionalism to Brazil, and dominated the Rio State Championship with three different clubs: there really wasn’t much left for Leonidas to revolutionise, yet somehow he managed to.”

Alex Caple

The bicycle kick—a feat of athletic brilliance—stands as one of football’s most captivating manoeuvres. Its execution demands a rare combination of agility, timing, and audacity. A player launches their body into the air, contorting mid-flight to strike the ball in an overhead motion. Complex and demanding, it nonetheless appears effortless when performed by the game’s maestros. Videos of bicycle kicks by Pele, Rivaldo, and Wayne Rooney flood YouTube, their artistry captivating millions. Among these names, Pele often reigns supreme, his iconic 1965 execution of the move during a friendly against Belgium immortalizing him in the annals of football history.

Yet, the origins of the bicycle kick precede Pele. According to the article La chilena, lo más famoso que Chile le ha dado al fútbol*, the move was first performed in the Pacific ports of Chile and Peru. Francisco Sanchez Gatica, a Chilean footballer, is credited with demonstrating this style during the inaugural South American Championships. From there, the technique spread across the continent, finding its spiritual home in Brazil—a land where football is synonymous with joy and creativity.

The Humble Beginnings of a Legend

In early 20th-century Brazil, societal shifts began to challenge entrenched hierarchies. Urbanization and the influx of European and Middle Eastern immigrants subtly reshaped the rigid class structures that had long defined the nation. Football, initially a pastime of the elite, began to reflect this transformation, albeit slowly and unevenly. Uruguay, a progressive force in South American football, became the first nation in the region to integrate black players into its national team, setting a precedent that Brazil would eventually follow. Yet, Brazil’s embrace of racial diversity in football was not born of idealism but necessity, driven in part by the undeniable brilliance of players like Leonidas da Silva. His success forced the nation to confront its prejudices, proving that talent could transcend the artificial boundaries of race and class. In this evolving landscape, Leonidas became both a pioneer and a symbol—a living testament to the transformative power of sport in a divided society.

The Rise of Diamante Negro

 Leonidas da Silva’s journey to footballing greatness began humbly at Bonsucesso in 1931, where his extraordinary performances quickly garnered attention. By 1932, he was donning the Brazilian jersey in the Rio Branco tournament against Uruguay, a team that epitomized global dominance as reigning world champions. In a defining moment, Leonidas scored twice to secure a historic victory, shattering Brazil’s conservative stance on racial inclusion in football. His brilliance on the pitch forced the nation to reconsider its prejudices, positioning him as a trailblazer in a sport still resistant to change.

Leonidas’s club career was equally transformative. Playing for elite teams like Vasco da Gama, Botafogo, and Flamengo, he broke barriers as one of the first black players to join Flamengo, an institution steeped in elitism. His tenure there was marked by multiple Rio State championships, a testament to his undeniable talent and resilience. At Flamengo, Leonidas not only elevated the club’s stature but also redefined the role of black athletes in a sport that mirrored Brazil’s societal inequalities.

The 1938 World Cup in France solidified Leonidas’s place in the pantheon of football legends. His dazzling performances, including a hat-trick in an unforgettable clash against Poland, showcased his technical brilliance and flair. Earning the Golden Boot as the tournament’s top scorer, Leonidas captivated the global audience, who christened him “Diamante Negro” (Black Diamond). This epithet, immortalized by a popular Brazilian chocolate brand, underscored his dual legacy as both a cultural icon and a symbol of resilience against racial barriers in football.

The Bicycle Kick and Leonidas’s Legacy

Although Leonidas da Silva is often mistakenly credited with inventing the bicycle kick, his true legacy lies in elevating the move to an art form. With unparalleled athleticism and creativity, he transformed a technical manoeuvre into a breathtaking spectacle, earning him the nickname “Rubber Man.” Jerry Weinstein aptly described him as “fast as a greyhound, as agile as a cat, and entirely made of rubber,” capturing the essence of Leonidas’s extraordinary physicality and flair.

Leonidas’s bicycle kick was more than a display of technical prowess—it was a statement of artistry and innovation. In his hands (or feet), the move transcended its utilitarian roots, captivating audiences and redefining the aesthetics of football. As Alex Caple observed, “Leonidas took the move internationally,” showcasing it on the grandest stages and inspiring a global audience. By popularizing the bicycle kick, Leonidas not only expanded the boundaries of what was possible on the pitch but also cemented his status as a pioneer who merged athleticism with artistry, leaving an indelible mark on the game.

A Legacy Beyond Football

 Leonidas da Silva’s influence transcended the confines of the football pitch, breaking racial barriers, challenging entrenched societal norms, and laying the foundation for the professionalization of football in Brazil. His triumphs illuminated a path for future legends like Pelé, Garrincha, and Zico, whose exploits would elevate Brazil to the pinnacle of the footballing world.

During the 1938 World Cup, a Brazilian journalist captured the essence of Leonidas’s brilliance: “[He] was simply amazing. He was our stick of dynamite. Each time he touched the ball, an electric current of enthusiasm surged through the crowd.” This vivid imagery encapsulates not only his mastery of the game but also his ability to ignite collective passion and pride in a nation still grappling with its identity.

Leonidas’s legacy is a testament to the transformative power of talent, resilience, and unyielding determination. He was more than a footballer—he was a cultural icon and a pioneer who redefined what it meant to be Brazilian, both on and off the field. His artistry and innovation, embodied by his iconic bicycle kick, set the stage for the spectacular feats of Pelé, Rivaldo, and Ronaldinho, who followed in his footsteps.

As we celebrate the grandeur of modern football, we must remember the man who first infused it with magic on the global stage. Leonidas da Silva, the Magia Negra, remains an enduring symbol of brilliance and inspiration—a trailblazer who proved that sport could unite, inspire, and transcend the boundaries of time.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Mohammad Rafique: A Symbol of Grit and Glory in Bangladesh Cricket

“Keep your dreams alive. Understand to achieve anything requires faith and belief in yourself, vision, hard work, determination, and dedication. Remember all things are possible for those who believe.” 

– Gail Devers 

December 26, 1994. A gripping silence enveloped both our drawing room and the Bangabandhu National Stadium. The air was thick with tension, punctuated only by the rhythmic pounding of hearts. India needed two runs off two balls to defeat Bangladesh in the SAARC Cricket Tournament, preserving their undefeated streak. At the centre of this drama stood Mohammad Rafique, an unassuming left-arm orthodox spinner whose resolve under pressure belied his humble beginnings. 

Four precise deliveries kept India’s tailenders in check. The fifth—a clever, spinning ball—induced an error. Venkatesh Prasad stepped out of the crease, only to be stumped by Jahangir Alam. The stadium erupted in jubilation; our household followed suit. Bangladesh’s narrow victory over a formidable Indian side felt nothing short of a lunar achievement for an associate cricket nation. 

The spotlight, naturally, returned to Aminul Islam, the Man of the Match for his gritty 64. But Rafique—the architect of that final, decisive moment—was relegated to the background. Little did the crowd know that this lanky bowler would, in the years to come, etch himself indelibly into the annals of Bangladesh cricket. 

From the Banks of Buriganga to Cricketing Glory 

Jinjira, nestled near the Buriganga River, epitomizes the duality of struggle and aspiration. Known for its resourcefulness, the area carries a reputation both notorious and vibrant. It was from these unremarkable streets that Mohammad Rafique emerged—a boy with dreams larger than the cramped spaces of his surroundings. 

Orphaned at a young age, Rafique bore the burden of supporting his family. Cricket, in a country where football dominated the public’s imagination, seemed an improbable escape. Yet, the open fields of Jinjira became his sanctuary, and his relentless practice there turned mere passion into undeniable skill. 

The opportunity came in 1985 when Bangladesh Biman spotted Rafique’s talent. Travelling from Jinjira to central Dhaka to play cricket was an odyssey: ferry rides, long walks, and overcrowded buses. But these hardships did not deter him. They fortified his resolve. 

Reinvention: The Spinner Within 

Rafique's transformation into a spinner was serendipitous. Initially a left-arm pacer, his career trajectory changed when Pakistani cricketer Wasim Haider suggested he try spin. Rafique later recounted the moment: “I was puzzled but bowled spin in the nets. The next day, I picked up wickets in a match. From then, I never went back to bowling fast.” 

This single suggestion unlocked a reservoir of talent. Rafique's precision, flight, and guile would go on to torment batsmen for over a decade. 

A Lone Warrior in a Nascent Cricketing Era 

In the 1990s and early 2000s, Bangladesh cricket lacked depth. Rafique often shouldered the burden singlehandedly, an all-format cricketer in an era when such versatility was rare. 

As a spinner, he bowled tirelessly, often carrying the attack without adequate support. In Test matches, his economy and perseverance were unmatched. As a batsman, he embodied audacity, opening innings in an era when pinch-hitting was experimental. His sixes were as emphatic as his spells, and his athleticism set a new benchmark for Bangladeshi fielding standards. 

More than his physical contributions, Rafique’s presence influenced team strategy. He became an on-field tactician, his input shaping critical decisions that often swung matches in Bangladesh’s favor. 

Shadows and Light 

No hero is without flaws, and Rafique was no exception. Critics questioned his temperament and controversies occasionally clouded his career. Yet, these shadows pale against the light of his contributions. A poignant example of his character came when Rafique donated land awarded by the Prime Minister to benefit his community—a selfless act that transcended sport. 

His legacy is inseparable from the socio-political ethos of Bangladesh. Emerging from hardship, Rafique symbolized resilience and the unyielding spirit of a nation that often thrives against the odds. 

The Legacy of Mohammad Rafique 

Patty Berg once said, “What does it take to be a champion? Desire, dedication, determination, concentration, and the will to win.” Rafique exemplified these virtues throughout his twelve-year international career. 

For the boys of Jinjira and beyond, Rafique’s journey is more than an inspiring tale—it is a roadmap. His story resonates with children who, like him, face the grim realities of poverty but dare to dream. 

In Bangladesh’s cricketing folklore, Rafique remains a symbol of hope, perseverance, and pride. His contributions laid the foundation for the meteoric rise of Bangladeshi cricket. Today, every victory of the Tigers is, in some measure, a tribute to pioneers like him—players who transformed adversity into achievement and brought glory to a nation.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar