Cricket in East Pakistan: A Journey from Marginalization to Passion

The year 1947 marked the end of British colonial rule in the Indian subcontinent, leading to the partition of India and the creation of two independent nations: India and Pakistan. This division gave birth to a unique political and cultural landscape, with Pakistan split into West and East regions. Amidst the political upheaval and socio-economic challenges, sports emerged as a unifying force, with cricket playing a pivotal role. Despite its colonial roots, cricket became a symbol of national pride and a tool for diplomacy, especially between India and Pakistan. However, the development of cricket in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) was starkly different from its progress in the West.

The Early Days: A Struggle for Recognition

In the years following the partition, cricket in West Pakistan began to flourish, fueled by enthusiastic players and administrators. In contrast, East Pakistan faced significant challenges. The departure of influential figures like the Maharaja of Natore and Sarada Ranjan Ray left a void in the cricketing landscape of East Bengal. Football and hockey quickly overshadowed cricket, particularly after Dhaka District Eleven’s historic victory over the Islington Corinthians football team in 1937. This triumph ignited a football revolution that dominated the region for decades.

Yet, cricket persisted in the pockets of East Pakistan. According to veteran journalist Muhammad Kamruzzaman, informal club leagues kept the spirit of cricket alive during the partition years. Matches were held at venues like Dhaka DSA Ground, Wari Victoria, and East End, albeit with limited infrastructure and resources. By 1948, organized cricket leagues resumed, laying the foundation for the sport’s future growth.

Institutional Support and Early Milestones

The formation of a cricket association in East Pakistan in 1951 marked a turning point. Spearheaded by figures like Feroz Khan Noon and Masood Salahuddin, this initiative sought to institutionalize cricket in the region. The visit of a Burmese cricket team in 1951 further bolstered local interest, even though the matches were casual and lacked professionalism. These events signalled the beginning of cricket’s gradual rise in East Pakistan.

The 1952-53 tour of East Pakistan by the West Pakistan cricket team, led by Abdul Hafeez Kardar, was another milestone. Matches held in Chattogram and Dhaka showcased local talent, with players like Dr. Mazharul Islam Damal and Qazi Mohsin earning recognition. Although these matches were largely symbolic, they planted the seeds for cricket’s growth in the region. Kardar himself acknowledged this in a 1954 column for Dawn, noting that the first seeds of cricket in East Pakistan had been sown.

The Rise of Infrastructure and Talent

The establishment of the East Pakistan Sports Federation (EPSF) further propelled cricket’s development. Participation in the Pakistan National League exposed local players to high-level competition, offering invaluable experience despite the dominance of teams from Karachi and Lahore. The construction of a cricket stadium in Dhaka in 1955, now known as the Bangabandhu International Stadium, ushered in a new era. Hosting its first Test match between Pakistan and India on January 1, 1955, the stadium became a symbol of East Pakistan’s cricketing aspirations.

During this period, cricket gained popularity among the youth, with schools and colleges embracing the sport. Grounds like Dhaka DSA, Wari Club, and Eidgah became hubs of cricketing activity, nurturing talents like Abdul Halim Chowdhury Jewel and Raquibul Hasan. These players, characterized by their fearless approach and technical proficiency, began to challenge the dominance of West Pakistani cricketers.

Persistent Discrimination and the Struggle for Equality

Despite these advancements, East Pakistani cricketers faced systemic discrimination. The cricketing hierarchy, dominated by West Pakistan, often overlooked talent from the East. Niaz Ahmed, a non-Bengali cricketer, was the only player from East Pakistan to represent the national team before 1971, highlighting the exclusionary practices of the time. Even when players from the East demonstrated their capabilities, as in the 1952-53 match against West Pakistan, they were frequently sidelined in favour of their Western counterparts.

This marginalization extended to international tours. For instance, Sohrab Khan and Amirullah Munni, two promising players from East Pakistan, were included in the Pakistan Eaglets’ tour to England but were fielded in only two matches out of twenty. Such instances underscored the systemic biases that hindered the growth of cricket in East Pakistan.

The Liberation War and the Birth of Bangladesh Cricket

The liberation war of 1971 marked a turning point in the history of East Pakistan. The sacrifices of individuals like Abdul Halim Chowdhury Jewel, who fought and died for Bangladesh’s independence, underscored the deep connection between cricket and national identity. Raquibul Hasan, another prominent cricketer, survived the war and became instrumental in rebuilding cricket in the newly independent Bangladesh.

Post-Independence: Rekindling the Cricketing Spirit

Following independence, cricket struggled to reclaim its preeminence in Bangladesh. Football dominated the sports landscape throughout the 1970s and 1980s. However, efforts to revive cricket persisted. By the mid-1990s, cricket began to eclipse football, fueled by grassroots initiatives and international exposure. The passion for cricket, deeply rooted in Bengal’s history, found new expression in the hearts of Bangladeshis.

Today, Bangladesh is a nation synonymous with cricket. The sport has transcended its colonial origins to become a symbol of national pride and unity. From the humble beginnings of club leagues in the 1940s to hosting international matches in state-of-the-art stadiums, Bangladesh’s cricketing journey is a testament to resilience and passion. The legacy of pioneers like Jewel, Raquibul, and countless others continues to inspire a cricket-mad nation.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The crossroads of Cricket and Politics in Bangladesh

In the rich tapestry of Bangladesh cricket, few names resonate as profoundly as Mashrafe Bin Mortaza and Shakib Al Hasan. Both have achieved legendary status on the field, becoming symbols of hope and resilience for millions of fans. However, their involvement in politics has sparked intense debate and raised concerns about the ramifications for the sport and society at large. While their intentions may be rooted in a desire to contribute to their country or personal gains, the negative impact of their political affiliations cannot be overlooked.

The Enmeshment of Sport and Politics

In many countries, the worlds of sport and politics often intertwine, and Bangladesh is no exception. The country's political landscape has long been characterized by turmoil, polarization, and a power struggle. When prominent figures from the cricketing fraternity, such as Mashrafe and Shakib, enter this arena – with Mashrafe already competing for the General Election and Shakin on the line for the next one five years later, it brings about significant changes—not just in the realm of governance but also in the perception of cricket as a sport.

Mashrafe, who transitioned from an illustrious cricketing career to a political one, was elected as a Member of Parliament in 2018. His presence in politics was initially welcomed by fans who saw it as an opportunity for positive change, given his popularity and leadership skills. However, as time has passed, the murky waters of political loyalty and partisanship have begun to overshadow his contributions to the sport. Instead of remaining a unifying figure, his political affiliation has risked alienating segments of the cricketing community, dividing fans along partisan lines.

Shakib, on the other hand, has taken a more nuanced approach - while he has not officially entered politics, his public endorsements of political figures and parties have placed him in the spotlight. His involvement raises questions about the role of athletes as political influencers and the potential consequences of their actions. The fine line between advocacy and endorsement can blur, leading to a situation where fans see their idols not just as sports heroes but as political pawns.

Erosion of Focus on the Sport

The foray of these cricketers into politics has had a tangible impact on the sport itself. When athletes become embroiled in political affairs, the focus shifts from their performance on the field to their political stances. This diversion can distract players from their training and preparation, potentially affecting team dynamics and performance.

Moreover, the cricketing fraternity can become polarized as fans align themselves with or against the political views of their favourite players. The sport, which once served as a unifying force, risks becoming a battleground for political ideologies. The intense scrutiny of their political activities may lead to increased pressure on these athletes, detracting from their primary role as ambassadors of the game.

The Risk of Losing Neutrality

Cricket has often been heralded as a unifying force in Bangladesh, transcending social, economic, and political divides. The involvement of high-profile cricketers in politics threatens this neutrality, shifting the narrative from sporting achievements to political allegiances. When players like Mashrafe and Shakib become representatives of specific political parties or ideologies, they inadvertently alienate fans who may hold opposing views.

This shift can also discourage young talents from pursuing cricket if they perceive the sport as becoming enmeshed in the political chaos that has often plagued Bangladesh. The essence of cricket—fostering camaraderie, sportsmanship, and unity—risks being overshadowed by divisive political narratives.

A Call for Reflection

As Mashrafe Bin Mortaza and Shakib Al Hasan continue their journeys, both them and their fans must reflect on the implications of their political involvement. While their contributions to society are commendable, the intersection of cricket and politics should be approached with caution.

The future of Bangladesh cricket hinges on maintaining its status as a unifying force. While athletes have the power to effect change, they must also recognize their responsibility as role models. Striking a balance between advocacy for social issues and remaining committed to the purity of sport is crucial.

In conclusion, while Mashrafe and Shakib’s intentions may stem from a genuine desire to contribute to their nation, their involvement in politics poses significant risks to the sanctity of Bangladesh cricket. The journey ahead requires thoughtful deliberation, emphasizing the need for these sporting icons to tread carefully as they navigate the complex interplay of sport and politics. By doing so, they can ensure that their legacy in cricket remains untarnished and continues to inspire future generations.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Anatomy of a Collapse: Pakistan’s Four-Run Defeat to New Zealand

In the storied history of Pakistan cricket, where brilliance and calamity often walk hand in hand, few collapses have been as gut-wrenching or inexplicable as the four-run defeat to New Zealand in the first Test of their 2018 series. It was a game that seemed all but won by lunchtime on the fourth day, only to unravel in a manner that epitomized the mercurial nature of Pakistan cricket. 

The implosion, marked by a series of poor decisions, shattered nerves, and New Zealand’s indefatigable spirit, now stands as a cautionary tale in Pakistan’s cricketing annals—a match where triumph turned into tragedy in a single session. 

The Turning Point: A Game of Psychological Poker 

At 130 for 3, with Azhar Ali and Asad Shafiq cruising, Pakistan were firmly in control. The wicket of Shafiq off the last ball before lunch, though a setback, appeared inconsequential. Yet, as the players returned to the field, the dynamics shifted dramatically. 

New Zealand, playing their first Test in seven months, exhibited a stubborn refusal to concede. They turned to psychological warfare, forcing Pakistan to confront the weight of expectation and the fear of failure. What followed was less a cricket match and more a game of poker, where New Zealand’s unwavering belief compelled Pakistan to doubt their own certainties. 

Babar Azam’s ill-advised run-out was the first crack in Pakistan’s resolve. A misjudged single that his partner Azhar Ali had no intention of taking symbolized the creeping panic. Sarfraz Ahmed, struggling for form and confidence, fell to an injudicious sweep, a shot that once defined his batting but now seemed an act of desperation. 

The Lower-Order Meltdown 

As Pakistan’s middle order crumbled, the tailenders followed suit in a frenzy of ill-conceived aggression. Bilal Asif’s wild heave off Ajaz Patel was emblematic of the chaos, a shot that handed New Zealand the seventh wicket and firmly shifted the momentum. Hasan Ali, tasked with steadying the chase, instead chose to channel a T20 mindset, skying Patel to deep midwicket with 12 runs still needed. 

Even Azhar Ali, Pakistan’s most composed batsman on the day, was not blameless. Only when left with number eleven Mohammad Abbas did he fully embrace the responsibility of farming the strike. By then, the damage was irreparable. Patel, who had been entrusted by Kane Williamson to deliver in the clutch moments, trapped Azhar in front to seal the narrowest Test victory in New Zealand’s history. 

New Zealand’s Heroics: Patel’s Moment of Glory 

While Pakistan’s collapse will dominate the narrative, credit must be given to New Zealand’s resilience and Ajaz Patel’s brilliance. Making his Test debut, Patel bowled with guile and precision, using flight, drift, and sharp turn to mesmerize Pakistan’s batsmen. His five-wicket haul was a masterclass in spin bowling under pressure, and his calm demeanour belied the magnitude of the occasion. 

Williamson’s decision to back Patel over the experienced Ish Sodhi proved inspired. Patel’s ability to adapt and outthink the opposition was instrumental in New Zealand’s improbable comeback, a testament to the team’s collective spirit and tactical acumen. 

Lessons Unlearned: Pakistan’s Fourth-Innings Woes 

This was not the first time Pakistan had faltered in a low fourth-innings chase. In 2017, they were bundled out for 81 against the West Indies in Barbados, chasing 187. Later that year, at the same Dubai venue, Sri Lanka bowled them out for 114 to snatch victory. These collapses reveal a troubling pattern—a mental fragility that surfaces under pressure, compounded by a lack of strategic clarity. 

In this instance, Pakistan’s batsmen seemed torn between aggression and caution, resulting in a muddled approach. Strategies were abandoned, and composure gave way to hysteria. The inability to adapt to the situation, combined with New Zealand’s unyielding resolve, sealed their fate. 

The Post-Mortem 

For Pakistan, this defeat will sting for years to come. The inquisition will be harsh, and blame will be apportioned liberally. Hasan Ali’s reckless shot, Sarfraz Ahmed’s poor form, and the lower order’s lack of discipline will all come under scrutiny. Yet, the deeper issue lies in the team’s collective mindset—a failure to handle pressure and close out games that should have been won comfortably. 

New Zealand, on the other hand, will cherish this victory as a testament to their grit and unity. For Patel, it was a dream debut, and for Williamson, a vindication of his leadership. 

A Tale of Two Teams 

This match was more than just a cricketing contest; it was a psychological battle that highlighted the contrasting character of the two sides. Pakistan, burdened by expectations and haunted by past failures, unravelled under pressure. New Zealand, with nothing to lose, played with freedom and belief, snatching victory from the jaws of defeat. 

In the end, this game will be remembered as much for Pakistan’s implosion as for New Zealand’s indomitable spirit. For Pakistan, it is a painful reminder of the fine line between glory and despair, a line they crossed most agonisingly.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Mushfiqur Rahim’s Milestone Amidst Bangladesh’s Test Cricket Conundrum

The second day of the second Test between Bangladesh and Zimbabwe at Mirpur belonged to Mushfiqur Rahim—a diminutive yet dynamic figure whose bat spoke volumes in an arena where Bangladesh often struggles to assert dominance. Mushfiqur’s masterful double hundred, a feat etched into the annals of cricket history, underscored his ability to rise above mediocrity. Yet, the broader narrative of Bangladesh’s Test cricket—riddled with tactical inertia and individual priorities—remains a story of missed opportunities and unfulfilled potential. 

Mushfiqur’s Record-Breaking Feat 

Patient and composed, Mushfiqur navigated the Zimbabwean attack with precision, becoming the first wicketkeeper in Test history to notch two double centuries. His marathon innings of 421 balls, spanning 589 minutes, broke records and solidified his place in an elite club of batsmen—including Sir Don Bradman, George Headley, and Brian Lara—who have twice rewritten their country’s highest individual Test scores. 

While Mushfiqur’s innings offered a masterclass in endurance and technique, it also highlighted a recurring theme in subcontinental cricket: the prioritization of personal milestones over team strategy. With Bangladesh in a commanding position, a more aggressive approach could have hastened a declaration, granting the bowlers more time to dismantle Zimbabwe. 

The Need for Tactical Clarity 

Bangladesh’s primary objective should have been to maximize their chances of forcing a result. The pitch, showing signs of uneven bounce, provided an opportunity to unsettle Zimbabwe early. However, the extended wait for Mushfiqur’s double century—and Mehidy Hasan’s half-century—meant precious time was squandered. Captain Mahmudullah Riyad’s eventual declaration left the bowlers just 18 overs to test the Zimbabwean batsmen, yielding only one wicket. 

This cautious approach, while understandable in certain contexts, seemed misaligned with the team’s overarching goal of securing a decisive victory. If Zimbabwe’s batsmen dig in during subsequent sessions, the slow passages of play on Day 2 might come back to haunt Bangladesh. 

Mahmudullah’s Struggles and Leadership Prospects 

For Mahmudullah Riyad, this Test series represents more than just another cricketing assignment. With Shakib Al Hasan unavailable and seemingly reluctant to commit to Test cricket, Mahmudullah has emerged as a candidate for long-term leadership in the format. Yet, his own form with the bat raises serious concerns. 

In 2018, Mahmudullah’s Test performances have been underwhelming. Across six matches, he has amassed just 169 runs at an average of 21.13, with a solitary unbeaten 83 on a batting-friendly Chattogram pitch against Sri Lanka. His recent scores—0, 4, 0, 16, 36, 28, 17, 6, 0, and 15—paint a grim picture of a batsman grappling with technical deficiencies and a lack of confidence. 

Mahmudullah’s vulnerabilities against both pace and spin have become glaringly apparent. Against pacers, he struggles to move his feet effectively and often pokes at deliveries outside off-stump, a recurring pattern in his dismissals. Against spinners, his approach has been erratic—alternating between reckless sweeps and poorly judged advances down the track. His dismissal on Day 2, caught behind off a delivery moving away from off-stump, epitomized a batsman out of rhythm and ideas. 

A Call for Redemption 

Despite his lean patch, Mahmudullah’s reputation as a hardworking cricketer offers hope. To justify his role as a linchpin in the batting order and a prospective captain, he must confront his technical shortcomings with urgency and determination. Refining his footwork, rediscovering the art of leaving deliveries outside off-stump, and adopting a measured approach against spin will be crucial to his resurgence. 

More importantly, Mahmudullah needs to lead by example. A captain’s form often sets the tone for the team, and his ability to rise above adversity could inspire his teammates to follow suit. 

Conclusion 

Mushfiqur Rahim’s double century was a moment of individual brilliance that illuminated an otherwise complex picture of Bangladesh’s Test cricket. While the innings showcased the potential of Bangladeshi batsmen to excel in the longest format, it also highlighted the need for greater tactical acumen and team-oriented thinking. 

As for Mahmudullah, the road ahead demands introspection and transformation. His struggles reflect not just his personal challenges but also the broader inconsistencies that plague Bangladesh’s Test cricket. To elevate the team’s standing in the format, Mahmudullah must rise to the occasion—not just as a batsman, but as a leader who embodies resilience and vision. 

In the end, Test cricket remains the ultimate measure of a team’s mettle. For Bangladesh, the path to redemption lies in embracing this challenge with renewed vigour, discipline, and a collective commitment to excellence.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar 

Bangladesh Cricket: A Test of Intent and Application

In cricket, the ultimate benchmark of greatness is often rooted in the Test format. Teams and players alike carve their legacies on the hallowed turf of five-day matches, where resilience, skill, and strategy collide. Yet, for Bangladesh—a nation that once celebrated the achievement of Test status in 2000 as a transformative milestone—the narrative of Test cricket is one of consistent underachievement, punctuated by moments that suggest a lack of collective willpower to embrace the format fully. 

Recent performances paint a grim picture. Bangladesh's scores in their last eight Test innings—110, 123, 43, 144, 149, 168, 143, and 169—resemble a parody of competitive cricket. Not a single innings crossed the 200-run threshold. Moreover, their last Test series victory came in 2014, against Zimbabwe, marking a barren run of 26 series without triumph. Such statistics, while stark, are symptomatic of deeper issues that go beyond mere numbers. 

The Sylhet Surrender 

The first Test in Sylhet against Zimbabwe typified Bangladesh's woes. On a Day 4 surface that retained its integrity—devoid of the venom often associated with deteriorating wickets—the Bangladeshi batsmen crumbled. A disciplined bowling display by Zimbabwe's Kyle Jarvis and the probing spin of Sikandar Raza exposed the Tigers' technical frailties and mental fragility. After a tentative opening stand, the team succumbed to 111/5 by lunch and folded entirely within an hour of the post-lunch session. 

This wasn't an isolated incident; it was a reiteration of a recurring theme. The top-order batsmen, far from showcasing grit or determination, seemed bereft of application. Their approach begged an uncomfortable question: do the players themselves value the prestige and challenge of Test cricket? 

A Tale of Two Formats 

Bangladesh’s ascent in the limited-overs formats, especially ODIs, has been commendable. They've grown into a formidable force, capable of challenging the best teams. However, this success in the shorter formats starkly contrasts with their Test performances. When donning the whites, the same players appear ill-equipped—both mentally and technically—to endure the rigours of Test cricket. 

The lack of interest is palpable. Even marquee players like Shakib Al Hasan and Mustafizur Rahman have expressed reluctance to commit to the format. This attitude undermines not just the team's immediate prospects but also the legacy and future of Bangladeshi cricket. 

Test Status: A Responsibility, Not a Right 

The Test status conferred upon Bangladesh in 2000 was more than a mere ceremonial upgrade. It was a gateway to opportunities, fostering cricket's growth beyond its traditional strongholds of Dhaka, Sylhet, and Chittagong. The exposure to elite cricketing nations has been instrumental in shaping Bangladesh's cricketing culture. However, this privilege comes with an expectation of respect and effort—qualities glaringly absent in their recent displays. 

Performance in Test cricket carries an intrinsic weight. Legends of the game—Sachin Tendulkar's artistry at Sydney, Clive Lloyd's dominant West Indies, or Steve Waugh’s indefatigable Australians—cemented their status in cricket’s pantheon through their exploits in the longest format. Bangladesh, too, must recognize that true progress and respect on the global stage require mastering Test cricket. 

The Way Forward 

The time for introspection is now. Bangladesh must confront the hard questions: Are the players genuinely invested in Test cricket? If not, it might be more dignified to take a hiatus rather than continue to tarnish the format with disinterest and lacklustre performances. 

If, however, there is a desire to compete and improve, the roadmap is clear: 

1. Skill Development: The technical deficiencies of the batsmen must be addressed with specialized coaching and intensive practice against quality bowling. 

2. Mental Conditioning: Test cricket demands patience and fortitude. Players need to develop the mental toughness to endure and excel. 

3. Team Culture: A cultural shift is imperative. The dressing room must prioritize and celebrate Test cricket as the ultimate challenge, fostering a sense of pride in the format. 

4. Leadership and Accountability: The management and leadership must set clear expectations and hold players accountable for their performances in Test matches. 

Conclusion 

Bangladesh’s Test status is not merely a trophy to be showcased—it is a platform to prove their mettle on cricket’s grandest stage. For a nation passionate about cricket, it is disheartening to witness such apathy toward a format that demands the very best of its participants. The Tigers must decide: will they rise to the challenge of Test cricket, or will they let this opportunity slip through their fingers? 

The choice they make will define not just their cricketing identity but their legacy in the annals of the sport.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar