Mominul Haque: The Enigma of a Pocket-Sized Dynamo in ODIs

In 2012, a boyish-looking Mominul Haque burst onto the international cricket scene, stepping in for the legendary Shakib Al Hasan in Bangladesh’s ODI lineup. His debut series showcased a rare blend of talent with both bat and ball, hinting at a bright future. By the following year, Mominul had already captured the imagination of cricketing pundits. His fluid wrists during a Test match against Sri Lanka earned him accolades, and his breathtaking century against New Zealand that same year solidified his reputation as a “pocket-sized dynamo.” 

While Mominul became a mainstay at number three in Test cricket, his fortunes in the shorter formats have dwindled alarmingly. Once seen as a promising all-format player, he now finds himself at a crossroads, with his ODI career reduced to a frustrating series of unfulfilled potential. 

A Decline in Numbers 

Mominul’s recent performances in ODIs paint a dismal picture. His last five outings yielded scores of 5, 9, 1, 3, and 15, averaging just 7 runs per innings in 2024. Shockingly, this is an improvement over his 2015 average of 2. For a player of his calibre, such statistics are not only disappointing but also baffling. 

What went wrong for a batsman so gifted? 

The Format Conundrum 

One possible explanation lies in Mominul’s inability to adapt his technique and approach to the distinct demands of ODI cricket. In Tests, he thrives on patience, building his innings methodically while relying on boundaries to accumulate runs. However, the limited-overs format demands quicker decision-making, adaptability, and a more nuanced approach to strike rotation—qualities Mominul has struggled to exhibit. 

Unlike Test cricket, where time is a luxury, ODIs require batsmen to strike a delicate balance between aggression and consolidation. Mominul’s reliance on boundaries, rather than manoeuvring the ball into gaps and rotating the strike, creates unnecessary pressure. When boundaries dry up, he often resorts to rash strokes, leading to his downfall. 

The Numbers Behind the Struggle 

A deeper look at his dismissals reveals telling patterns. In 44% of his ODI innings, Mominul has been caught by fielders, and 20% of the time, he has been caught behind. These figures highlight two critical issues: 

1. Lack of Confidence: The high percentage of caught dismissals reflects a batsman throwing away his wicket due to a lack of conviction in his shot selection. 

2. Technical Vulnerabilities: In ODIs, the absence of a consistent slip cordon often lures Mominul into playing with an angled bat outside off-stump, a habit he successfully curbs in Test cricket. 

Lessons from the Greats 

Mominul’s predicament is not unique. Legendary ODI batsmen like Michael Bevan and Michael Hussey built their reputations not on brute force but on their ability to rotate strike and build innings under pressure. Closer to home, Mahmudullah Riyad and Mushfiqur Rahim have mastered this art, combining calculated aggression with strategic accumulation. 

The mantra for success in ODIs lies in adaptation. It’s not about clearing the boundary ropes from the outset but about earning the right to accelerate later. This requires an understanding of field placements, timing, and the ability to manipulate bowlers—skills Mominul possesses but has yet to consistently apply. 

The Way Forward 

Mominul must rediscover the essence of his batting. His strength lies in his pristine timing rather than sheer power. He can pierce gaps and accumulate boundaries with elegance, a skill that can yield dividends if paired with a more calculated approach. 

To rebuild his ODI career, Mominul needs to: 

1. Focus on Strike Rotation: Develop the habit of finding singles and twos early in his innings to ease the pressure. 

2. Temper Aggression with Patience: Avoid the temptation to dominate bowlers prematurely and instead build confidence through time at the crease. 

3. Refine Technique: Address his vulnerability outside off-stump by adopting a more compact stance and straightening his bat angle. 

Conclusion 

Mominul Haque remains one of Bangladesh’s most talented batsmen, but his ODI career hangs in the balance. The qualities that make him a Test cricket stalwart—timing, temperament, and touch—are assets that can also shine in ODIs if he adapts his mindset and approach. 

The road to revival may not be easy, but for a batsman once hailed as a pocket-sized dynamo, the potential for resurgence is undeniable. With the right adjustments and a renewed sense of purpose, Mominul can transform from an enigma to an enduring force in Bangladesh’s ODI lineup.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Unfinished Dream: Bangladesh Cricket and the Pursuit of Glory

Once again, Bangladesh stands at the precipice of cricketing greatness, only to falter when the summit seemed within reach. The recently concluded Asia Cup marked the third time the Tigers graced the finals, yet their elusive quest for a multi-national trophy continues. This tale of near misses began in 2009, when a defiant Sri Lanka, led by the unlikeliest of heroes, Muttiah Muralitharan with the bat, denied Bangladesh its maiden glory. Since then, the script has repeated itself – four finals, four heartbreaks – as the dream of lifting silverware in 32 years of ODI cricket remains tantalizingly out of reach. 

This year’s journey to the Asia Cup final was anything but smooth. It was a crucible of resilience, forged in the furnace of adversity. What sets this campaign apart from past efforts was the mental fortitude displayed by the Tigers. Gone are the days when the team unravelled following the loss of a star performer. This time, each setback seemed to strengthen their resolve, each injury igniting a new fire. By the time the final rolled around, they had captured the admiration of cricket’s intellectual elite, who recognized their journey not as a fleeting surprise but as a testament to their growing stature in world cricket. 

India may have clinched the title, but the battle-hardened spirit of Mashrafe Bin Mortaza and his men stole the show. The valiant display in the final, where they pushed the mightiest batting line-up to the brink, earned Bangladesh accolades that transcended the confines of victory or defeat. 

Reflections Beyond Euphoria 

In the aftermath, Bangladesh basks in the euphoria of their performance. The contentious dismissal of Liton Das and the unwavering adulation for Mashrafe dominate discussions across the nation. Yet, this is also a moment for introspection. While the Asia Cup has showcased their progress, it has also illuminated persistent vulnerabilities. 

The top-order fragility remains a pressing concern. Despite Liton Das’s magnificent century in the final, the quest for a reliable partner to complement Tamim Iqbal continues. Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s temporary promotion may have borne fruit in the short term, but his natural position lies further down the order. Thus, Liton emerges as the most viable long-term option alongside Tamim. 

The number three position presents another conundrum. While Shakib Al Hasan has admirably filled the role on occasion, it is evident that it curtails his instinctive, free-flowing style. Shakib thrives at number five, where his game can flourish unrestrained. Mohammad Mithun, on the other hand, showed the temperament and adaptability needed for the number three slot in the Asia Cup. His ability to anchor the innings, rotate the strike, and absorb pressure makes him a promising candidate. However, alternatives like Nazmul Hossain Shanto, despite his struggles, and the experienced Mominul Haque warrant consideration as backups. 

Soumya Sarkar’s performance in the final provided a glimpse of his potential as a lower-order finisher. His composure under pressure and handy medium pace offer flexibility, whether at number six, seven, or even as a contender for number three. 

Crafting the Ideal Combination 

A balanced lineup for the future could see Tamim and Liton as openers, Mithun at three, followed by Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib, Soumya, and Mahmudullah forming a formidable middle order. The bowling unit led by Mashrafe, Rubel Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz ensures a blend of experience, skill, and versatility. 

However, the path to success is not merely about selecting the right combination. It hinges on preparation, fitness, and addressing the gaps exposed during the Asia Cup. The eight months leading to the World Cup are an opportunity to refine strategies, build depth, and ensure that fitness issues do not derail the campaign as they nearly did this year. 

Looking Ahead 

The Asia Cup is history, but its lessons must serve as a guide for the road ahead. Bangladesh has demonstrated that they can compete with the best, but the leap from contenders to champions requires consistency, adaptability, and an unrelenting focus on improvement. The Tigers’ journey is far from over, and their greatest triumph may yet lie on the horizon. For now, the question lingers: what’s next for the Tigers?

Thank You

Faisal Caesar              

Mashrafe Bin Mortaza: The Heartbeat of Bangladesh Cricket

In the volatile world of international cricket, where fortunes shift in the blink of an eye, only the toughest rise above adversity. Leadership in this arena demands more than just skill—it requires resilience, tactical brilliance, and the ability to inspire others to transcend their limits. Mashrafe Bin Mortaza embodies these qualities, standing as a beacon of hope and a symbol of unwavering determination for Bangladesh cricket. Over the years, he has not only been a leader but also a tactical genius, particularly in the limited-overs format. 

The Captain’s Mantle: Calm Amid Chaos

When the pressure mounts, all eyes turn to the captain. A true leader remains composed, using strategy and encouragement to guide their team through adversity. Mashrafe exemplified this during Bangladesh’s tense encounter against Afghanistan in the Asia Cup. 

Mustafizur Rahman, one of Bangladesh’s strike bowlers, was battling cramps in the searing Abu Dhabi heat. The sight of a struggling “Fizz” could have unsettled the team, but Mashrafe’s calm demeanour and motivational words lifted his spirits. 

“The heat there [in Abu Dhabi] is more than the ground in Dubai; not just me but a lot of us were cramping,” Mustafizur later recounted. “I told bhai [Mashrafe] that I was having cramps in my calves. He told me to rest, but that I had to come back at the end. I said that I would do it any way I could.” 

Mashrafe’s mentorship proved pivotal. Mustafizur delivered a brilliant penultimate over, helping Bangladesh secure a nail-biting two-run victory. This moment underscored Mashrafe’s ability to inspire confidence and instil belief, even in the direst circumstances. 

Adversity Breeds Brilliance 

Just before the crucial match against Pakistan, Mashrafe faced another setback: Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh’s star all-rounder, was ruled out due to injury. Losing a player of Shakib’s calibre—both a dependable batsman and a key bowler—was a significant blow. The team’s confidence wavered, but Mashrafe’s leadership ensured they did not crumble. 

Bangladesh managed to post a modest total of 239, thanks to a vital partnership between Mushfiqur Rahim and Mohammad Mithun. However, defending such a score against Pakistan’s batting lineup, even a relatively inexperienced one, required the tactical acumen of the highest order. 

The Shoaib Malik Masterstroke

When Shoaib Malik joined Imam-ul-Haq at the crease, Pakistan seemed poised to seize control. Malik’s experience and ability to anchor innings under pressure made him a formidable opponent. Sensing the danger, Mashrafe devised a specific plan to neutralize him. 

He instructed Rubel Hossain to attack the middle and leg stumps with a full length, tempting Malik to play aerial shots towards midwicket. Positioned strategically at midwicket, Mashrafe was ready to execute his plan. 

The trap worked perfectly. Malik attempted to chip a delivery over midwicket, and Mashrafe, defying age and physical limitations, dived to take a spectacular catch. It was a moment of brilliance—both tactical and athletic—that shifted the momentum in Bangladesh’s favour. 

Part-Timers to the Rescue

With Shakib unavailable, the middle overs—a phase he usually dominated—became a potential weak spot. Mashrafe turned to part-timers Soumya Sarkar and Mahmudullah Riyad, a decision fraught with risk. Part-time bowlers can either leak runs or deliver breakthroughs, but their success often hinges on the captain’s field placements and strategic guidance. 

Mashrafe’s tactical genius came to the fore. He set fields that complemented the bowlers’ strengths while exploiting Pakistan’s weaknesses. For Soumya, the plan was to bowl on top of off-stump, with fielders positioned to intercept cover drives and backward-point shots. Mashrafe kept the midwicket region intact to build pressure, forcing batters to play riskier strokes. 

The strategy paid off. Shadab Khan, under pressure, attempted a hook shot against Soumya’s innocuous delivery and edged it to the fielder. It was a wicket born of intelligent captaincy rather than exceptional bowling. 

At the other end, Mahmudullah’s task was to dry up singles and attack the stumps. Mashrafe’s field placements—keeping mid-off up in the circle and deep midwicket slightly wider—lured Imam-ul-Haq into a false stroke. Mahmudullah struck at a critical juncture, further tilting the game in Bangladesh’s favor. 

In the 15 overs bowled by Soumya and Mahmudullah, only 57 runs were conceded at an economy rate of 3.8. This phase was instrumental in Bangladesh’s eventual victory, compensating for the absence of Shakib. 

The Mark of a Leader 

Mashrafe’s leadership is not just about tactical brilliance; it’s about instilling belief and fostering resilience. His ability to adapt to challenging situations, inspire his teammates, and outthink the opposition makes him one of the finest captains in modern cricket. 

As Bangladesh celebrated their victory over Pakistan, it was clear that Mashrafe’s influence extended far beyond the scoreboard. He had turned a team missing its star player into a cohesive unit, using strategy, mentorship, and sheer willpower to achieve success. 

In Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, Bangladesh cricket has a leader who embodies the spirit of the game—a captain who not only leads but inspires, not just commands but elevates. His legacy will not just be measured in victories but in the indomitable spirit he has instilled in his team. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Bangladesh’s Grit Under Fire: A Tale of Redemption

The Bangladesh camp was anything but calm. Back-to-back defeats against Afghanistan and India sparked a familiar storm of criticism, as is often the case when the Tigers falter in successive games. The air buzzed with debates, dissecting every decision and misstep. 

The sudden inclusion of Imrul Kayes and Soumya Sarkar raised eyebrows, with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) leadership coming under scrutiny. Critics lamented the over-reliance on the "Fabulous Five"—Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Tamim Iqbal, Mahmudullah Riyad, and Mashrafe Bin Mortaza—while revisiting the perennial issue of Bangladesh’s fragile first-class cricket structure. 

Amidst this backdrop of external noise, the Tigers faced internal turmoil. Their brittle batting order and the poor form of key players created a pressure cooker environment. The crunch game against Afghanistan began with promise but quickly spiralled into chaos as two panic-induced run-outs saw Shakib and Mushfiq depart prematurely. These were not the mistakes of novices but of seasoned campaigners, and they left Bangladesh reeling at 87 for 5. 

Kayes and Mahmudullah: The Unexpected Saviors 

Few would have placed their faith in Imrul Kayes, playing his first ODI in 11 months and thrust into an unfamiliar role at number six. Nor would many have backed Mahmudullah Riyad, whose struggles against spin had been well-documented. Yet, cricket often thrives on the unexpected, and this partnership proved to be a masterclass in composure under duress. 

Faced with Afghanistan’s potent spin attack, led by the indomitable Rashid Khan, the duo adopted a calculated approach. They resisted the temptation to counterattack recklessly, opting instead for patience and precision. The strategy was clear: deny the spinners wickets at all costs, even if it meant sacrificing quick runs. 

As Brendon McCullum once remarked, “One must rein oneself in under pressure. Instead of going for a big heave when you're not seeing the ball well, take a single to get the other batsman on strike. Doing that gives you time to settle down and find form.” Kayes and Mahmudullah embodied this philosophy, manoeuvring the field and rotating the strike with intent. 

The Numbers Tell the Story 

The results were telling. Against Rashid Khan, the pair managed 36 runs off 48 balls without losing their wickets—a stark contrast to the group-stage encounter, where Bangladesh had lost six wickets for 78 runs by the 31st over. Their sixth-wicket stand not only stabilized the innings but also provided a platform for a competitive total. 

In the post-match press conference, Mahmudullah reflected on their approach: “We decided during the partnership that we wouldn’t give Rashid any wickets. We wanted to go deep and see it till the end. We achieved our target.” 

This deliberate strategy underscored a crucial lesson: sometimes, survival is the best form of attack. By neutralizing Rashid, they shifted the pressure back onto the Afghan bowlers, setting the stage for a more confident finish. 

The Power of a Clear Mind 

Handling pressure requires mental fortitude, and as cricket analyst Aakash Chopra aptly noted, “Players who can detach themselves from the importance of the occasion are better equipped to handle pressure.” Mahmudullah echoed this sentiment, stating, “I was just playing him with an empty mind.” 

This ability to block out the noise and focus solely on the task at hand is a hallmark of great players. Over the years, Mahmudullah has repeatedly demonstrated this quality, bailing Bangladesh out of precarious situations with his calm demeanour and calculated shot-making. 

Mustafizur’s Moment 

The final overs added another layer of drama. Mustafizur Rahman, battling cramps, stepped up to bowl the penultimate over with remarkable poise. His body language betrayed no sign of discomfort or pressure, and his variations in length kept the Afghan batsmen guessing. In such moments, mental strength often outweighs physical readiness, and Mustafizur’s ice-cool temperament proved decisive. 

A Narrow Escape 

In the end, Bangladesh edged past Afghanistan by three runs—a victory as narrow as it was hard-earned. Yet, this triumph was more than just a win; it was a testament to the power of resilience, strategy, and mental clarity. 

Lessons from the Battle 

Bangladesh’s performance against Afghanistan highlighted the importance of adaptability and the courage to embrace unconventional solutions. The decision to include Kayes and the tactical approach to Rashid Khan were risks that paid off handsomely. 

Moving forward, the Tigers must internalize these lessons. Cricket, especially in high-stakes tournaments, is as much about mental strength as it is about skill. The ability to detach from the pressure, focus on the basics, and execute a clear plan will be crucial as they navigate the challenges ahead. 

For now, Bangladesh can take solace in the fact that, when pushed to the brink, they found a way to roar back. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Bangladesh’s Faltering Resolve: A Tale of Promise and Peril

In the blink of an eye, Bangladesh found themselves ensnared in the fury of Lasith Malinga’s fiery spell during the Asia Cup opener. Liton Kumar Das and Shakib Al Hasan departed early, leaving the team reeling. When Tamim Iqbal retired hurt, the situation grew dire, demanding not aggression but calm, calculated resolve. 

Rising to the occasion, Mushfiqur Rahim and Mohammad Mithun displayed exemplary temperament, stabilizing the innings and pulling their side from the brink. Their partnership, bolstered by Tamim’s heroic return, not only salvaged Bangladesh’s pride but also crushed Sri Lanka’s morale. 

Yet, in cricket, consistency is the true measure of greatness. Just days later, the same Bangladesh batting lineup—minus Tamim—crumbled under pressure. Against Afghanistan, they were bundled out for a paltry 119, and against India, they fared only slightly better, managing 173. The resolve that had saved them against Sri Lanka seemed to have evaporated, replaced by rashness and poor decision-making. 

The Lost Art of Patience 

In the fast-paced world of Twenty20 cricket, aggression often trumps patience. However, in the 50-over format, the old virtues of building partnerships and spending time at the crease remain invaluable. This is where Bangladesh faltered. 

The opening duo of Liton and Nazmul Hossain failed to weather the storm of India’s new-ball attack. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah bowled with precision, but neither delivery that dismissed the openers was unplayable. Liton fell to an ill-advised pull shot, while Nazmul poked tentatively at a ball outside off stump. Both succumbed to poor shot selection rather than unrelenting pressure, inviting unnecessary trouble for their team.

The Seniors Fail to Deliver 

In times of crisis, teams look to their senior players for guidance and stability. For a brief moment, Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim seemed poised to provide just that. Their partnership hinted at a revival, but Shakib’s dismissal exposed a lapse in judgment uncharacteristic of a player of his experience. Having executed a textbook sweep, he attempted an audacious scoop off a similar delivery, only to find the fielder strategically placed for such an error.  

Mithun, the hero of the opening match, fell to a misjudged stroke, playing forward to a ball that demanded a back-foot response. His dismissal epitomized the lack of clarity in Bangladesh’s approach. 

Then came Mushfiqur’s moment of reckoning. Ravindra Jadeja’s unerring accuracy had tightened the noose, but instead of grinding through the pressure, Mushfiq resorted to an unorthodox reverse sweep—a high-risk shot that backfired spectacularly. 

A Chain Reaction of Errors 

At 65 for 5, Bangladesh’s hopes rested on Mahmudullah Riyad, a player known for his composure under pressure. Yet, he too succumbed, undone by a wild sweep. To compound matters, a glaring inside edge went unnoticed due to the team’s lack of remaining reviews—a cruel twist of fate that mirrored their self-inflicted woes. 

Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Mashrafe Bin Mortaza managed to lend some respectability to the total, but 173 was never going to challenge a batting powerhouse like India. Predictably, the Indian team chased down the target with ease, handing Bangladesh a humbling defeat. 

Lessons from the Debacle 

Bangladesh’s collapse underscores the timeless importance of sticking to the basics. Cricket, especially in its longer formats, rewards discipline and perseverance over recklessness. The Tigers’ lack of resolve and poor shot selection were glaring, but these shortcomings are not insurmountable. 

The team must revisit the virtues that have brought them success in the past: patience, partnerships, and situational awareness. The match against Sri Lanka proved they are capable of resilience. To compete consistently at the highest level, they must harness that resolve, not as a fleeting display but as a defining characteristic. 

The Road Ahead 

Bangladesh’s journey in the Asia Cup has been a rollercoaster of emotions, from the euphoria of their opening triumph to the despair of successive defeats. However, adversity often serves as the crucible for growth. If the Tigers can learn from their mistakes and rediscover their resolve, they can still roar back into contention. 

Cricket is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Bangladesh must steel their minds and sharpen their focus, for in this sport, as in life, it is not the fall but the rise that defines greatness.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar