Pakistan's Test Woes: A Familiar Collapse in South Africa

The questions surrounding Pakistan's batting are perennial, almost a ritualistic discourse in cricketing circles: *When will the lineup collapse? How long before the opposition seals the match?*

In the second Test against South Africa, these questions were answered with ruthless efficiency. With two days still in hand and 228 runs needed to script a comeback, Pakistan folded predictably, showcasing yet again their perennial fragility in alien conditions. The visitors succumbed to a whitewash—a result as inevitable as it was disheartening.

A Tale of Two Missing Pillars 

The absence of Younis Khan and Misbah-ul-Haq has left an irreplaceable void in Pakistan’s Test lineup. Post their retirement, the baton was expected to pass to Asad Shafiq and Azhar Ali—batters groomed in the shadows of these stalwarts. Yet, their inability to shoulder responsibility has left Pakistan's batting brittle, especially overseas.

Azhar Ali’s numbers, while respectable at first glance, unravel under scrutiny. His career average of 43.27 dips to 37.41 away from home. In the SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia) countries, the disparity becomes stark. Apart from a solitary bright spot in Australia, where he averages a remarkable 81.20, his numbers plummet: a dismal 16.00 in South Africa, 29.68 in England, and 29.42 in New Zealand. 

Shafiq, touted as a middle-order mainstay, has fared no better. His career average of 38.94 flatters to deceive, buoyed largely by runs on placid tracks in the UAE. In testing conditions, the cracks widen: averages of 36.5 in England, 32.08 in South Africa, and 23.28 in New Zealand. For two players with over 60 Tests under their belts, such mediocrity is damning.

The Missing Fight 

Batting in SENA countries requires more than just technique; it demands grit, adaptability, and the will to fight against the odds. This is where Pakistan’s senior batters have faltered most glaringly. Instead of shielding younger players like Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, or Shan Masood from fiery pace attacks, they’ve exposed them to the lions' den unprepared. 

Babar’s audacious stroke play against Dale Steyn and Masood’s unexpected resolve offered glimpses of potential, but these were mere flickers in a sea of darkness. Captain Sarfraz Ahmed, while not expected to anchor innings as a specialist batter, has failed to inspire his team as a leader. The captaincy in Test cricket demands a vision and a steeliness that Sarfraz has yet to demonstrate.

A Perennial Problem 

This series was not a new chapter but a rerun of an all-too-familiar script. Since the departure of Pakistan’s batting greats of the 1990s and 2000s, tours of South Africa have become an exercise in futility. The team often goes through the motions, returning home with fleeting positives and lessons unlearned. 

The blame lies not only with individuals but also with a collective mindset. Without meticulous planning, mental preparation, and a genuine hunger for success abroad, Pakistan’s Test progress will remain stagnant. The need for accountability, strategy, and leadership cannot be overstated. 

A Call for Change 

If Pakistan aspires to be competitive in Test cricket, especially overseas, the status quo must be challenged. The transition from flat-track dominance to consistent performances in hostile conditions will demand a cultural shift. Batters like Azhar and Shafiq must either rediscover their fighting spirit or make way for a new generation willing to embrace the challenge.

For now, the haunting echoes of another South African whitewash remain—a bitter reminder of what Pakistan cricket could be, but isn’t.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

India's Historic Triumph: Redefining Dominance on Australian Soil

For a long time, Sydney has marked the end of Australia's Test summer, a series often won and occasionally lost—yes, occasionally lost to teams like England or South Africa but rarely to those from the subcontinent. The last time a subcontinental team truly rocked Australia at the SCG was Pakistan in 1995-96. Since then, the SCG has been a fortress celebrating Australian triumphs.

This season, however, has been different. To the astonishment of Australian fans and neutrals alike, India has left Australian shores having historically won a Test series. The absence of David Warner and Steve Smith played a pivotal role in unsettling Australia’s psyche, while the captaincy of Tim Paine has come under scrutiny. Questions linger over whether he is the right leader for this side. More intriguingly, the preparation of pitches seemingly advantageous to the visitors demands a closer look.

India’s Commanding Performance

The series finale at Sydney, marked by intermittent rain, ended in a draw, but the decisive moments occurred days earlier when India amassed a colossal 622. Tim Paine, reflecting on the series, lamented missed opportunities in the opening Test at Adelaide. He believed that had key chances been taken, the 2-1 scoreline could have been reversed.

India’s dominance was established early in the series, despite being 5 for 86 on the opening day in Adelaide. Cheteshwar Pujara’s masterful hundred—the first of his three for the series—lifted India to 250, a modest total that still allowed them to seize a crucial 31-run victory. Although Australia levelled the series in Perth, the slower pitches in Melbourne and Sydney thwarted their ambitions, and India emerged as the superior side. Another dry day in the final Test might have pushed the scoreline to 3-1 in India’s favour.

Australia’s Batting Struggles

Australia’s batting woes were glaring throughout the series. The absence of Warner and Smith exposed the frailty of their lineup, which managed only eight half-centuries and a top score of 79 by Marcus Harris. Promising performances by Harris and Travis Head offered glimmers of hope, but Head’s form faded after half-centuries in Adelaide and Perth. Meanwhile, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon stood out as the only consistent performers in a largely underwhelming campaign.

Ricky Ponting, never one to mince words, slammed Australia for a lack of desperation, particularly criticizing Nathan Lyon’s failure to review an LBW decision despite having two challenges remaining. “That dismissal actually says a lot about the mindset of this Australian team at the moment,” Ponting remarked. His sharp critique extended to Mitchell Starc’s indifferent body language and the team’s inability to capitalize on flat pitches. “If they’re flat, get some runs on them,” he quipped.

India’s Tactical Brilliance

India’s success was built on meticulous planning and execution. Pujara’s relentless accumulation of runs and Jasprit Bumrah’s incisive bowling were pivotal. The emergence of young talents like Rishabh Pant and the leadership of Virat Kohli, despite his absence in the latter part of the series, underscored India’s depth and resilience. Ajinkya Rahane’s calm captaincy in Kohli’s stead proved instrumental in maintaining the team’s focus.

The pitches, which many argue suited India’s strengths, played a role, but it was their adaptability and mental fortitude that truly set them apart. India’s ability to seize key moments—from Pujara’s grinding hundreds to Bumrah’s fiery spells—highlighted their evolution as a formidable force in Test cricket.

Broader Implications for Australia

For Australia, this series has been a wake-up call. The absence of their two premier batsmen exposed a lack of depth, while Paine’s captaincy raised questions about his tactical acumen and leadership under pressure. The reliance on Cummins and Lyon, without adequate support from the rest of the bowling attack, further highlighted systemic issues.

Moving forward, Australia must address these deficiencies to remain competitive in the Test arena. The integration of young talents like Harris and Head offers a silver lining, but a more cohesive strategy and greater mental toughness will be essential.

A Historic Triumph

India’s series victory marks a watershed moment in cricket history. It is a testament to their skill, preparation, and resilience. As the celebrations continue, this triumph will be remembered as a defining chapter in India’s cricketing journey and a stark reminder to Australia of the challenges that lie ahead.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

The Resurgence of Sri Lankan Cricket: Kusal Mendis and the New Dawn

Sri Lankan cricket has long been a tale of resilience, punctuated by the exploits of its talismanic players. Aravinda de Silva and Arjuna Ranatunga were the architects of numerous rescue acts in the 1990s, their stoic determination and brilliance often steering Sri Lanka away from the brink. They handed over the mantle to Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara, whose sublime artistry and indomitable spirit sustained the team for over a decade. In the transitional phase that followed, Angelo Mathews emerged as the torchbearer, but persistent fitness issues curtailed his ability to consistently shoulder the burden. Consequently, the responsibility of reviving Sri Lanka’s fortunes fell to a new generation of players.

Among this cohort, names like Dinesh Chandimal, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Perera, Roshen Silva, and Kaushal Silva emerged, brimming with talent but often plagued by inconsistency. However, one name has begun to rise above the rest: Kusal Mendis. At just 23 years old, Mendis has showcased a temperament and resolve reminiscent of Sri Lanka’s cricketing greats, offering a glimmer of hope to a fanbase weary of mediocrity.

The Rise of Kusal Mendis

Mendis announced himself on the world stage with a scintillating 176 against a formidable Australian attack at Pallekele in 2016. It was an innings of rare brilliance, blending audacious strokeplay with an uncanny ability to dominate the opposition. The knock set the tone for a memorable series victory, but it also created an expectation that Mendis’s career trajectory would mirror the meteoric rise of legends before him. Yet, the years that followed were marked by inconsistency, as Mendis grappled with the nuances of Test cricket.

By 2018, under the guidance of coach Chandika Hathurusingha and batting mentor Thilan Samaraweera, Mendis began to evolve. He shed his impulsive reliance on counterattacks and embraced a more measured approach, understanding that Test cricket demands adaptability and patience. This transformation was evident during Sri Lanka’s tour of New Zealand, where Mendis delivered back-to-back heroic performances in Wellington and Christchurch, braving hostile conditions and relentless bowling to keep his team afloat.

A Newfound Maturity

The hallmark of Mendis’s resurgence has been his ability to adapt to the demands of different situations. Against New Zealand, he weathered the storm from Trent Boult and Tim Southee, enduring Neil Wagner’s relentless short-pitched barrage with poise. His partnership with Angelo Mathews in Wellington was a masterclass in survival, as the duo batted through an entire day to secure a draw. Mendis’s willingness to curb his natural attacking instincts for the team’s cause marked a significant shift in his approach.

Reflecting on his innings, Mendis acknowledged his errors with refreshing candour. “I don’t think that was a great ball to drive,” he admitted after his dismissal in Christchurch. “After looking at the replays, I realised I made the wrong decision. Hopefully, I can learn from it.” Such self-awareness is a trait shared by cricket’s finest, and it bodes well for Mendis’s future.

The Impact of Chandika Hathurusingha

Hathurusingha’s tenure as Sri Lanka’s coach has been fraught with challenges, but his influence on Mendis’s development is undeniable. Alongside Samaraweera, he has instilled in Mendis a deeper understanding of his game. The results have been encouraging: Mendis ended 2018 as one of the year’s leading run-scorers, amassing over 1,000 runs and standing shoulder-to-shoulder with luminaries like Virat Kohli.

The Road Ahead

Mendis’s declaration that he aims to score 1,000 runs every year is a testament to his ambition and hunger. Yet, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. For Sri Lanka to reclaim its place among cricket’s elite, Mendis must continue to evolve, translating his undeniable talent into consistent performances. He has shown glimpses of the temperament and technique required to emulate the likes of Mahela and Sangakkara, but the journey is far from over.

Sri Lanka’s cricketing fortunes have often hinged on the emergence of players capable of inspiring those around them. In Kusal Mendis, they may have found such a figure—a beacon of hope in a period of turmoil. His story is still being written, but if 2018 is any indication, Mendis has the potential to etch his name alongside the legends of Sri Lankan cricket.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

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