An Open Letter to West Indies Cricket Team: Get up, Stand up and Reach the Top

 

Dear West Indies Cricket Team,

You don’t know me. I am just another cricket fan from Bangladesh, writing to you in the hope that my words might resonate with the echoes of your storied past and illuminate the path toward a brighter future.

Let me begin with honesty—the kind of heartbreak you delivered to me and my nation on Valentine’s Day was difficult to digest. Yet, as a neutral cricket admirer, I find myself compelled to celebrate you for that very same triumph. There is a unique joy in witnessing a team rise against the odds, silencing critics with grit and flair. And that’s precisely what you did.

Like many, I confess, I was sceptical about the squad you brought to Bangladesh. As someone who grew up admiring cricket legends like Imran Khan and Sir Vivian Richards, the West Indies has always held a special place in my heart. I have seen your team dominate the world, and it was a painful experience to witness your decline. Yet, like countless optimists, I continue to dream of the resurgence of Caribbean cricket.

Your fall from grace has often felt inexplicable: the inconsistency, the off-field turmoil, the allure of T20 leagues over Test cricket—it’s been frustrating to watch. How could a team that once epitomized the beauty of Test cricket lose its passion for the format? This question haunts not just me but cricket enthusiasts worldwide.

Back in the vibrant Caribbean islands, cricket was more than a game; it was a declaration of identity and defiance. Legends like Learie Constantine, George Headley, Wes Hall, and Sir Frank Worrell wielded bat and ball as instruments of liberation. They donned whites not just to play but to prove that the black community could outshine anyone on the global stage. Test cricket became the canvas where the Caribbean painted its brilliance—a medium to showcase talent, resilience, and unmatched flair.

The West Indies didn’t just play Test cricket; they redefined it. Batting was as joyful as a calypso beat in Antigua, and the ball was a fireball in the hands of Holding and Marshall. The world watched in awe as Worrell, Sobers, and Viv transformed the sport into an art form, one that inspired millions. “Get up, stand up, stand up for your rights,” sang Bob Marley, and your cricket embodied that ethos.

Today, it’s hard to reconcile that glorious past with the current state of West Indies cricket. Yet, every now and then, you remind us of your potential, leaving us dreaming of a revival. This was evident during your recent tour of Bangladesh. Kyle Mayers’ heroics in Chattogram and your team’s remarkable finish at the Sher-E-Bangla National Cricket Stadium were nothing short of inspiring.

As a Bangladeshi, I was heartbroken by my team’s performance, their lack of fight in the longest format. But as a cricket fan, I couldn’t help but marvel at your determination. The so-called “below-par” West Indies team had painted Bangladesh maroon, proving that the spirit of Test cricket still flickers in the Caribbean.

Players like Nkrumah Bonner, Joshua Da Silva, Rahkeem Cornwall, Jomel Warrican, and Mayers are the bright spots of this tour. They embody the qualities that once made the West Indies invincible. But talent alone is not enough. What you need now is a vision—a sense of purpose and a commitment to nurturing the game’s longest and most challenging format.

Let me remind you of Marley’s wisdom:

“Preacher man, don’t tell me Heaven is under the earth I know you don’t know What life is really worth… So now you see the light, eh”

The light you glimpse in Bangladesh should guide you. It’s a beacon, urging you to reclaim your legacy. Test cricket is not just a format; it’s the soul of the game, and it’s where the West Indies belongs.

As a fan, I yearn for the day when the Caribbean rules the cricketing world again. I believe in your ability to rise, to inspire, and to reignite the magic of your golden era. As Marley said, “None but ourselves can free our minds.” Free your minds. Embrace the light. Everything will be fine.

Get up. Stand up.

With hope and admiration,

A Cricket Fan from Bangladesh

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar

A Tale of Grit, Grace, and History: Mushtaq Mohammad’s Record-Breaking Century

The Delhi Test of 1960 was more than just a cricket match; it was a stage where history was written, resilience was tested, and a young prodigy announced his arrival to the world. Nari Contractor’s decision to bat first on a placid pitch seemed justified as India piled up a commanding 463, thanks to Polly Umrigar’s heroic century and contributions from Rusi Surti and Chandu Borde. Yet, the true drama of the match unfolded in Pakistan’s response, where a 17-year-old Mushtaq Mohammad etched his name into cricketing folklore. 

The Backdrop: A Battle of Wits and Will

India’s bowlers, led by the fiery Ramakant Desai, the metronomic Bapu Nadkarni, and the crafty debutant Surendranath Kumar, had Pakistan on the ropes early. Hanif Mohammad, the rock of Pakistani batting, fell cheaply, and at 89 for 4, the visitors were staring at a follow-on. It was then that Mushtaq Mohammad, the youngest Test debutant in history and a teenager with just five Tests under his belt, walked out to join Javed Burki. What followed was a masterclass in patience, determination, and youthful exuberance. 

The Resistance: A Partnership Forged in Fire

The Indian bowlers threw everything they had at the young duo. Desai, with his relentless aggression, tested them with bouncers; Nadkarni, with his robotic accuracy, gave nothing away; and Kumar, with his deceptive googlies, kept probing for weaknesses. Yet, Mushtaq and Burki stood firm. They curbed their natural instincts, blocked with resolve, and slowly began to find their rhythm. By the end of the third day, they had taken Pakistan to 160 for 4, with Burki on 42 and Mushtaq on 38. The match was delicately poised, and the Delhi crowd sensed they were witnessing something special. 

The Flourish: A Century for the Ages

The fourth day saw Mushtaq transform from a cautious defender to a confident stroke-maker. He opened up, playing elegant drives and deft cuts, and soon overtook Burki. When Burki fell for 61 and Intikhab Alam followed shortly after, Pakistan were 225 for 6, still 150 runs adrift of avoiding the follow-on. But Mushtaq, now joined by the experienced Fazal Mahmood, refused to buckle. 

As he neared his century, the significance of the moment became apparent. The world record for the youngest Test centurion, held by New Zealand’s Giff Vivian (19 years 121 days), was within reach. The Delhi crowd, initially partisan, began to applaud the young maestro. And then, with a stroke of brilliance, Mushtaq reached the milestone at the age of 17 years and 78 days, shattering the record by a staggering margin. 

The Aftermath: A Match of Near-Misses

Mushtaq’s heroics couldn’t save Pakistan from the follow-on, but his innings had already cemented his place in history. Desai and Kumar continued to toil, finishing with eight and seven wickets respectively, while Nadkarni’s marathon spells (86.4 overs for just 67 runs) epitomized his unwavering accuracy. Pakistan’s second innings saw Hanif and Imtiaz Ahmed provide resistance, but India’s bowlers chipped away relentlessly. 

In the end, time ran out for India. Requiring just 74 to win, they were denied by the clock, and the match ended in a draw. Yet, the real story was Mushtaq’s century—a blend of youthful audacity and mature composure. 

The Legacy: A Record That Endured

Mushtaq’s record stood as a testament to his precocious talent for nearly four decades. In 1990, a 16-year-old Sachin Tendulkar came agonizingly close, falling for 88 in Napier. When Tendulkar finally scored his maiden Test hundred, he missed Mushtaq’s record by 29 days. It wasn’t until 2001 that Bangladesh’s Mohammad Ashraful broke the record, scoring a century at 17 years and 61 days. 

The Epilogue: A Symbol of Resilience

Mushtaq Mohammad’s century was more than just a statistical milestone; it was a symbol of resilience and a harbinger of greatness. In a match dominated by India, his innings stood out as a beacon of hope for Pakistan. It was a reminder that cricket, at its core, is a game of character as much as skill.  

Years later, as Mushtaq reflected on his career, that innings in Delhi remained a defining moment—a testament to the courage of a boy who dared to dream and the brilliance of a man who delivered when it mattered most. In the annals of cricket, Mushtaq Mohammad’s name shines brightly, not just as a record-holder but as a symbol of the indomitable spirit that defines the sport.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Bayern Munich: The Undisputed Kings of Football

 

In the grand theatre of world football, few clubs have managed to etch their names in history with the kind of dominance Bayern Munich has displayed. The Bavarian juggernaut, relentless and unyielding, reaffirmed their status as the best club in the world by clinching the FIFA Club World Cup title in Qatar. Their 1-0 victory over Mexican side Tigres UANL at the Education City Stadium not only secured their sixth trophy in less than nine months but also cemented their place among the pantheon of footballing immortals. 

A Triumph in Adversity 

This wasn’t just a victory; it was a testament to Bayern’s resilience and depth. Missing key players like Thomas Müller, Leon Goretzka, and Javi Martínez due to COVID-19, and Jerome Boateng for personal reasons, Bayern still showcased their unrelenting quality. Even under the weight of these absences, Hansi Flick’s men demonstrated why they are considered the benchmark in modern football. 

From the outset, Bayern’s high press suffocated Tigres, leaving the CONCACAF champions unable to mount any meaningful attacks. The Bavarians dictated the tempo, with Kingsley Coman, Leroy Sané, and Robert Lewandowski spearheading wave after wave of assaults on Tigres’ goal. 

While the first half saw Bayern denied by VAR and the crossbar, the breakthrough came in the 59th minute. A Robert Lewandowski header, parried by Tigres goalkeeper Nahuel Guzmán, fell kindly for Benjamin Pavard, who slotted it home. VAR scrutiny confirmed the goal, and Bayern never looked back. 

Tactical Superiority 

Bayern’s dominance wasn’t just physical—it was tactical. Hansi Flick’s side operated with precision, exploiting Tigres’ defensive frailties and controlling the midfield with Joshua Kimmich orchestrating the play. Kimmich’s disallowed goal in the 18th minute was a reminder of his knack for finding space and delivering from range, while Sané’s relentless energy and creativity on the flanks kept Tigres on the back foot. 

Defensively, Bayern were impenetrable. André-Pierre Gignac, Tigres’ talismanic striker, found himself isolated and neutralized by Bayern’s disciplined backline. Every Tigres attack was met with swift and calculated resistance, a testament to Bayern’s organizational prowess. 

A Historic Sextuple 

With this victory, Bayern Munich achieved what only Pep Guardiola’s legendary Barcelona side had done before: winning the sextuple. The Bundesliga, Champions League, Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup, DFB-Pokal, and DFL-Supercup now sit proudly in Bayern’s trophy cabinet, a testament to their unparalleled dominance. 

Former Bayern coach Pep Guardiola, now managing Manchester City, congratulated his former team in a heartfelt message. “Big congratulations to the whole Bayern family for this incredible success. To be the club world champions and to win six out of six titles—I am so proud,” Guardiola said. With characteristic wit, he added, “Maybe I can call Messi and company, and we can play for the seventh title. Tell me when and where.” 

This historic feat underscores the meticulous planning and execution that has defined Bayern under Flick’s stewardship. Taking over in November 2019 after the team’s humiliating 5-1 defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt, Flick transformed a faltering side into an indomitable force. His record speaks for itself: six trophies in just over a year, with more trophies won than games lost (6 vs. 5). 

Individual Brilliance, Collective Glory 

The triumph in Qatar was a special moment for Benjamin Pavard, Corentin Tolisso, and Lucas Hernández. Having already lifted the World Cup with France in 2018, the trio now boasts the rare distinction of being champions of the world at both club and international levels. 

Lewandowski, often the focal point of Bayern’s attack, once again proved his worth. Though he didn’t score, his header led to the decisive goal, and his presence constantly troubled the Tigres defense. Meanwhile, Leroy Sané and Serge Gnabry demonstrated the depth of Bayern’s attacking options, with their pace and creativity causing constant problems for the opposition. 

The Legacy of Bayern Munich 

Bayern’s journey to this historic sextuple has not been without challenges. In 2013, under Jupp Heynckes, they came tantalizingly close to achieving the same feat, only to fall short in the DFL-Supercup. This time, under Flick, they’ve completed the circle, matching Guardiola’s Barcelona and perhaps even surpassing them in terms of sheer dominance. 

This Bayern team will be remembered not just for their trophies but for their style, grit, and unity. In an era where football is often dictated by individual brilliance, Bayern Munich have reminded the world of the power of a cohesive team. 

As the final whistle blew in Qatar, it wasn’t just a victory for Bayern—it was a celebration of football at its finest. The Bavarians have not just dominated; they’ve elevated the game, setting a standard that future teams will aspire to reach. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

A Tale of Redemption and Domination: England’s Triumph in Chennai, 2021

 

The Test series of 1993 remains etched in memory for Indian cricket fans—a period of redemption for skipper Mohammad Azharuddin following a dismal tour of South Africa. England, led by the formidable Graham Gooch, arrived in India brimming with confidence, seeking to replicate their triumphant campaign of 1984-85. But what unfolded was a resounding humiliation as Azharuddin and his spinners orchestrated a clean sweep in Kolkata, Chennai, and Mumbai, reshaping the narrative of Indian cricket. 

Fast forward to 2021, echoes of that history resonated as England once again faced India in Chennai, a venue where they had tasted contrasting fortunes over decades. This time, it was Joe Root’s England, reinvigorated by a stellar performance in Sri Lanka, looking to challenge India on their home turf. Yet, history has often shown that conquering India at home demands a combination of brilliance, strategy, and a touch of audacity. 

A Root Masterclass: Defining the Art of Batting 

Joe Root’s masterful double century was not just a display of technical excellence but also a testament to his adaptability and mental fortitude. Winning the toss proved pivotal as Root opted to bat on a surface destined to deteriorate. England’s openers made a steady start, but two quick strikes left them wobbling at 63 for 2. Enter Root, the man of the hour. 

Root’s approach was a masterclass in resilience. Against Jasprit Bumrah and Ishant Sharma, he showcased impeccable patience, scoring just 11 runs off his first 50 balls. It was a tactical decision, aimed at wearing down India’s formidable bowling attack. His footwork against spin was exemplary, as he cleverly avoided the danger zone of 2-3 meters where Ravichandran Ashwin thrives. Root’s sweeping game, a blend of traditional, hard, and reverse sweeps, dismantled the spinners' rhythm and drew comparisons to the likes of Graham Gooch and Mike Gatting from the 1987 World Cup. 

What stood out was his calculated acceleration. After a conservative start, Root shifted gears seamlessly, scoring 111 off his next 137 balls. His ability to attack with control was evident, with only 12% false shots despite attacking 34% of deliveries in the final session. The innings culminated in a majestic slog-sweep for six, a fitting exclamation point to a knock that laid the foundation for England’s dominance. 

A Tale of Two Teams 

England’s first-innings total of 578, built around Root’s double ton, was a commanding statement. In contrast, India’s response was lackluster. Jofra Archer’s fiery new-ball spell rattled the openers, and Dom Bess capitalized on the pressure, dismissing key players like Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane. Rishabh Pant’s counterattacking 91 and Cheteshwar Pujara’s stoic resistance offered hope, but England’s spinners tightened the noose, leaving India 241 runs behind. 

The Ashwin Show and Anderson’s Magic 

Faced with a mammoth deficit, India turned to their talisman, Ravichandran Ashwin. On a wearing pitch, Ashwin delivered a masterclass in spin bowling, claiming 6 for 61 in England’s second innings. His nine-wicket haul in the match was a reminder of his enduring prowess, but the target of 420 was always a daunting ask. 

Enter James Anderson, the ageless wizard. On a dust bowl seemingly suited for spinners, Anderson produced a spell for the ages. His 7-over burst on the final morning, featuring reverse swing and pinpoint accuracy, left India shell-shocked. The dismissal of Shubman Gill—a reverse-swinging delivery that sent the off-stump cartwheeling—was a masterpiece of craft and execution. Ajinkya Rahane and Rishabh Pant fell to Anderson’s guile, sealing India’s fate. 

England’s Resilience and Redemption 

England’s victory in Chennai was more than just a win; it was a statement of intent. Joe Root’s sublime batting, Dom Bess’s disciplined spin, and James Anderson’s timeless brilliance combined to create a memorable performance. For Root, it was a continuation of his golden run, underscored by a hunger for runs and an unyielding belief in his abilities. 

This match echoed the spirit of 1993 in reverse—a foreign captain leading his side to a commanding victory on Indian soil. While the ghosts of Kolkata and Chennai linger for England, this triumph adds a new chapter to their rich cricketing history. For the Indian team, it served as a sobering reminder of the relentless demands of Test cricket, where even the mightiest can falter. 

As the series unfolded, one thing became clear: this was not just a Test match; it was a celebration of cricket’s enduring charm, where moments of brilliance and resilience intertwine to produce a narrative that transcends the game itself.

 Thank You

Faisal Caesar

Unyielding Spirit of Pakistani Pace: Hasan Ali's Remarkable Comeback

 

Pakistan cricket has long been synonymous with producing a conveyor belt of fast-bowling talent—merciless, charismatic, and often temperamental. The country’s search for successors to the legendary Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Shoaib Akhtar remains a perpetual odyssey. Over the years, flashes of brilliance have emerged—Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Amir, with their surreal artistry, briefly rekindled hopes before their careers faltered under the weight of scandal and inconsistency. Yet, one enduring trait of Pakistani pacers never fades: the capacity to conjure game-changing spells that dramatically overturn matches.

From Umar Gul’s reverse-swing masterclasses to the fiery spells of Junaid Khan, Aizaz Cheema, and even the unpredictable Mohammad Sami, Pakistan’s history is rich with moments of bowling sorcery. The current crop of pacers, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, continues this tradition, and Hasan Ali’s resurgence is the latest chapter in this enduring saga.

A Test Series for the Ages

The Rawalpindi Test against South Africa in 2021 exemplified the mercurial nature of Pakistani cricket. Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma stood resolute on the final day, their composure threatening to script a dramatic chase reminiscent of Brisbane 2021 or Chattogram 2020. Markram’s defiant century—his first in the subcontinent and since March 2018—was a testament to his grit, while Bavuma’s elegant 61 underscored his growing stature.

On a slow, low-bouncing pitch, Pakistan’s pacers toiled admirably with the old ball. Yet, Markram and Bavuma’s technique, anchored in precise footwork and focus, seemed unbreachable. Shaheen Afridi’s yorkers were negotiated with aplomb, and Yasir Shah’s leg-spin was nullified with skilful defence.

Enter Hasan Ali with the new ball. In a spell as devastating as it was intelligent, Hasan dismissed Markram with a length ball teasingly placed outside the off-stump, forcing an indecisive poke that carried to slip. The dismissal marked a pivotal turning point. Moments later, Quinton de Kock succumbed to a similar fate, his hard-handed drive latching onto the waiting hands of Imran Butt.

From that moment, South Africa’s resistance unravelled. Bavuma fell to a probing delivery from Afridi, and Pakistan’s bowlers tightened their grip. Afridi and Hasan combined to dismantle the lower order, sealing a historic series win—Pakistan’s first against South Africa in 18 years.

Hasan Ali: The Journey Back to Glory

For Hasan Ali, this triumph was deeply personal. His 10-wicket haul (10/114) across both innings was not just a statement of his skill but a vindication of his arduous journey back to fitness and form. Once the darling of Pakistan cricket, Hasan had faded into obscurity after a stellar Champions Trophy campaign in 2017. Injuries, a dip in form, and exclusion from the central contract list painted a grim picture of a career in decline.

Yet Hasan’s resolve never wavered. Turning to first-class cricket, he dominated the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, taking 43 wickets and forcing his way back into the national side. His performance in Rawalpindi epitomized a player reborn—a bowler who had rediscovered his rhythm, pace, and hunger.

“Test cricket has always been my dream,” Hasan reflected. “Being away from the game for 16-17 months was tough, but I worked day and night to make my comeback meaningful. I wanted to perform, not just return.”

The Resilience of Pakistani Fast Bowlers

Pakistan’s pacers have often embodied the nation’s cricketing ethos: unpredictable, audacious, and relentless. Hasan Ali’s story mirrors that of many before him—raw talent forged through adversity and polished through determination. Whether it was Waqar Younis revolutionizing reverse swing or Shoaib Akhtar’s thunderbolts rattling batsmen, Pakistan’s bowlers have always carried an air of enigma.

Hasan’s resurgence serves as a timely reminder of the importance of patience and perseverance. His success highlights the value of domestic cricket as a crucible for rejuvenation and underscores the unique character of Pakistani fast bowlers: their ability to defy odds and deliver when it matters most.

The Road Ahead

With Hasan Ali back in form, Pakistan’s fast-bowling arsenal looks increasingly formidable. Shaheen Afridi, already a linchpin, continues to grow, while younger talents emerge in the background. Hasan’s journey also offers hope to cricketers sidelined by injuries or form—proof that comebacks are possible with dedication.

For world cricket, Hasan’s return is more than just Pakistan’s gain. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of fast bowling—a craft that captivates audiences and defines eras. In Hasan Ali, we find a bowler who embodies the undying spirit of Pakistan cricket, a player determined to leave a lasting legacy.

As Hasan himself said, “Life goes up and down, but if you don’t enjoy it, then what’s the point? You only live once, so smile through it.”

Pakistan Cricket smiles with him. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar