Mirpur Test: Evenly Contest on an Attritional Day

The sun gleamed brightly over the Sher-e-Bangla Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, casting a warm glow on the meticulously arranged grass that resembled a chessboard. The greenish patches, still moist with the morning dew, added a touch of freshness to the scene. While the aesthetic appeal was undeniable, the pitch's unevenness, particularly in the centre, was a cause for concern for the team batting first. Despite this, Zimbabwean captain Craig Ervine won the toss and chose to bat, a decision that would test the mettle of both teams.

Ervine's choice was informed by the belief that the wicket would ease as the day progressed, offering more opportunities for run-scoring. The Zimbabwean approach was clear: bat with discipline, focus on occupying the crease, and score within their limitations. This strategy mirrored the resolve they had shown in their recent series against Sri Lanka, where patience and careful shot selection had been key to their success.

From Bangladesh's perspective, the early breakthroughs were crucial. Abu Jayed made the first incision, while Ebadot Hossain, bowling with purpose, added pressure. However, it was Jayed's discipline that stood out. His ability to maintain a consistent line and length was the cornerstone of Bangladesh's initial success. Yet, despite the early breakthroughs, the Bangladeshi bowlers were left to shoulder the burden with minimal support, particularly in the absence of a third seamer. The lack of depth in the pace attack was evident, as both Jayed and Ebadot were forced to bowl long spells, which took a toll on their effectiveness. It is important to note that Bangladesh's pacers are not accustomed to extended spells, and their fitness and rhythm suffer without adequate rest.

The pitch, which had initially shown signs of life, began to lose its bounce as the day wore on. By the time lunch arrived, the surface had become lower and more difficult to navigate, offering little room for expansive stroke play. The batting side would have to be patient, for any loose deliveries would be eagerly punished, but a disciplined bowling attack could easily stifle free-flowing cricket.

In the face of this challenging environment, the Bangladesh bowlers, despite some struggles, did well to apply pressure. Taijul Islam, unfortunately, lacked the necessary discipline, but Nayeem Hasan provided a welcome spark. His sharp length consistently forced the Zimbabwean batsmen to play forward, inducing false strokes and creating opportunities for wickets. Nayeem's control over his length was particularly commendable, as it ensured that the batsmen could not easily settle into a rhythm.

Yet, the true story of the day lay in the resilience of the Zimbabwean batting line-up, led by Craig Ervine. His composed hundred was a testament to the patience and determination required to succeed on such a surface. Ervine's innings was not just a personal achievement but a rallying point for the entire team, ensuring that Zimbabwe did not crumble under pressure. His ability to marshal the innings, combining solid defence with selective aggression, was crucial in setting a competitive total. Without his steadfast leadership, Zimbabwe's batting might have faltered, but his performance ensured they remained in the contest.

In conclusion, while Bangladesh's bowlers fought valiantly, the lack of depth in their pace attack and the struggles of some key bowlers left them with little margin for error. Zimbabwe, on the other hand, displayed commendable discipline and resolve, particularly through Ervine's gritty century. The day was a reminder that in cricket, the mental fortitude of the players often makes the difference when conditions are challenging, and both teams exhibited a fierce will to succeed in the face of adversity.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar  

The Rise and Fall of Philippe Coutinho: A Tale of Dreams and Decline

Once the heartthrob of Anfield, Philippe Coutinho was affectionately known as the "Little Magician." Under Jurgen Klopp, he was a vital cog in Liverpool’s aspirations to become one of Europe’s elite clubs. Anfield adored him, and Coutinho repaid that love with dazzling performances. In Brazil, he was hailed as a key player who could help the Selecao secure their sixth World Cup title. Yet, in January 2018, Coutinho made the fateful decision to leave Anfield for Camp Nou, believing Barcelona offered the stage to achieve even greater glory.

A Move That Backfired

Liverpool fans were heartbroken by Coutinho’s departure, but his move to Barcelona marked the beginning of a steep decline. At Anfield, he had been the centrepiece of Klopp’s system, but at Barcelona, he struggled to find his place. The 2017-18 season, which saw him join the Catalan giants mid-season, proved to be the start of a downward spiral. While Liverpool grew stronger, ultimately winning the Champions League and Premier League in the years following his exit, Coutinho’s career faltered.

The Bayern Munich Loan Spell

In an attempt to rediscover his form, Coutinho was loaned to Bayern Munich for the 2019-20 season. The German champions deployed him as a number 10, a role seemingly suited to his strengths. Despite occasional flashes of brilliance, Coutinho failed to consistently deliver. His inability to influence games—as evidenced in a scoreless draw against RB Leipzig—highlighted his struggles. Bayern ultimately decided against making his move permanent, signalling that Coutinho’s time at the highest level was under threat.

The Challenges at Barcelona

Back at Barcelona, Coutinho’s prospects look bleak. The club’s financial woes and managerial changes have left little room for his redemption. Barcelona’s reliance on younger talents and Coutinho’s high wages make him an expendable asset. If the Catalan club chooses not to reintegrate him, the Brazilian faces an uncertain future.

The Road Ahead: Limited Options

A return to the Premier League could be on the cards, but the options are limited. Liverpool’s current system, built around the attacking trio of Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah, and Roberto Firmino, leaves no room for Coutinho. Peter Moore, Liverpool’s CEO, remarked, “When he left, it was a complete change of style, and we hardly lost a game.” Other Premier League clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, Everton, or Tottenham Hotspur might show interest, but questions remain about his ability to adapt.

Paris Saint-Germain could emerge as a potential destination. With Neymar and Kylian Mbappe leading their attack, PSG might view Coutinho as an additional creative force. However, even there, competition for places would be fierce. Alternatively, a return to Brazil, with clubs like Flamengo or Santos, could provide him with a platform to rebuild his career in a less demanding environment.

The Legacy of a Fallen Star

Coutinho was once destined to be one of the greatest players of his generation. His technical skill, creativity, and vision made him a joy to watch. Yet, his career choices and subsequent struggles have left fans wondering what might have been. While there is still time for a resurgence, Coutinho’s current trajectory paints a sombre picture for a player who once lit up the world stage.

For fans of the Selecao and football enthusiasts alike, Coutinho’s story serves as a cautionary tale of how even the brightest stars can fade when the wrong decisions are made. The question remains: can the Little Magician conjure one final act of brilliance to restore his legacy?

Thank You

Faisal Caesar  

Rawalpindi Test: Third Consecutive Innings Defeat for Bangladesh

The morning sun bathed Rawalpindi in a golden glow, casting a serene blue sky above. Yet, as the sun rose higher, so did the stark contrast between the hosts and the visitors on the cricket field. Bangladesh, despite having the early opportunities to challenge Pakistan, seemed to have been caught off guard, their resistance crumbling as quickly as the wickets fell. It was as though they had set their sights on an early exit, eager to catch an afternoon flight, rather than battling for a lasting presence on the pitch.

Pakistan, on the other hand, savoured the simplicity of the victory. A win so easy, so unchallenged, left little satisfaction for the opposition. The lack of fight from Bangladesh allowed for an extra day of rest—a luxury that few Test matches afford. It was a victory devoid of the drama that makes cricket memorable, the kind of win that doesn’t even afford the defeated the dignity of a challenge.

Despite the early promise of resistance, Bangladesh’s batsmen once again displayed an alarming tendency to self-destruct. Starts were made, but they were followed by reckless shot selection and an apparent inability to adjust their footwork. The second innings saw six Bangladesh batsmen fall victim to the leg-before-wicket dismissal—a fate that has become all too familiar for the team. It was only the second time in their Test history that such a fate had befallen them in an innings, the first instance occurring in 2009 against Sri Lanka. The record for the most LBWs in an innings belongs to Zimbabwe (7 against England in 2003) and New Zealand (7 against Australia), but the recurrence of this issue for Bangladesh speaks volumes about their technical frailties.

The crux of the problem lies in the inability to move the feet effectively, particularly against deliveries that nip back or are pitched fuller. This flaw, deeply ingrained in the mindset of Bangladeshi batsmen, is nurtured on the docile pitches of the domestic circuit, where bowlers struggle to extract any real assistance from the surface. On such pitches, a lack of foot movement can often go unnoticed, and batters can accumulate runs without truly being tested. But when they step outside this comfort zone, as they did in Rawalpindi, the lack of preparation becomes painfully evident.

Rawalpindi, a pitch that should have offered enough for the batsmen to make a fight of it, instead became a graveyard for Bangladesh’s ambitions. The question remains: why did they capitulate so easily? One possible explanation lies in the deep-seated habits formed on the placid decks of domestic cricket. These habits, once ingrained, are not easily shaken off, even in the face of stiffer challenges.

The lack of discipline in shot selection, even when set at the crease, continues to plague Bangladesh’s senior batsmen. Mominul Haque, Tamim Iqbal, and Mahmudullah Riyad, all of whom have considerable experience, should have been the guiding lights for their younger counterparts. Instead, their shot choices raised questions about their judgment and sensibility. While the absence of key players is often cited as an excuse, the fact remains that the team possesses enough seasoned cricketers to provide direction and stability.

This defeat in Rawalpindi marked the third consecutive innings defeat for Bangladesh, further cementing their reputation as a team struggling to find its footing in the longer format. With 89 defeats from 118 Tests, their losing percentage stands at a staggering 75.42%. The recent triumph of the young Tigers in South Africa, a bright spot in Bangladesh’s cricketing history, cannot obscure the grim reality of the Test team’s ongoing struggles. Beneath the shine of that achievement lies the persistent shadow of Bangladesh’s Test cricket woes, a sad and ongoing saga that refuses to fade away.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

The Resilience of the Tigers: A Dawn Amidst Heartbreaks

For Bangladesh cricket, the journey to glory has often been marred by heartbreaks. The finals, those ultimate stages where champions are crowned, have historically been cruel to the Tigers. Over the years, these moments of despair have not only tested their resolve but have also questioned their ability to hold their nerve when it mattered most. Yet, beneath the weight of repeated disappointments lies a story of resilience, of a team refusing to bow to the narrative of perpetual failure.

Since 2015, under the sagacious guidance of Chandika Hathurusingha and the inspirational leadership of Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, Bangladesh emerged as a formidable force. They proved their mettle by defeating cricketing giants, earning respect on the global stage. However, when it came to the finals—the grandest stages of all—the Tigers faltered. This inability to conquer the summit became a recurring theme, haunting both the senior and junior sides alike.

But as history has often shown, the darkest nights give way to the brightest dawns. Bangladesh, despite its losses, never let its morale wane. Each defeat became a lesson, each heartbreak a stepping stone. The senior team shattered their finals jinx in Ireland, and soon after, the Under-19 squad set their sights on a bigger prize—the ICC Under-19 World Cup.

A Visionary Blueprint

The journey to the title was not an accident but the result of meticulous planning. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), led by Nazmul Hassan, ensured the young Tigers were battle-ready. Over 18 months, they played numerous preparatory matches, each treated as a crucial step toward their ultimate goal. The emphasis was clear: winning was not just about skills but about cultivating a hunger that could withstand any challenge.

At the helm of this transformation was head coach Naveed Nawaz, a former Sri Lankan cricketer who understood the nuances of mental fortitude. Nawaz instilled in his boys the importance of patience and perseverance, echoing the wisdom of Rumi: “Be patient where you sit in the dark. The dawn is coming.” Alongside him, a team of specialists—bowling coach Abdullah Ali Akhtar, fielding coach Basit Ali, and strength and conditioning coach Richard Stonier—worked tirelessly on refining every aspect of the players’ game.

This collective effort was not just about honing skills; it was about building character. The young Tigers learned to thrive under pressure, to remain unshaken in the face of adversity. They became, in Nawaz’s words, “battle-hardened,” ready to take on the mightiest of opponents.

The Final Frontier

When the final arrived, the stakes couldn’t have been higher. Their opponents, India, were seasoned campaigners, accustomed to the pressures of mega-events. The Indian team’s aggression and mental toughness were legendary, qualities that had often proved too much for Bangladesh in the past.

But this time, the script was different. The young Tigers entered the field not as underdogs but as equals, determined to rewrite history. Their body language was a testament to their transformation—no longer playing merely to win hearts, but to claim the trophy.

The match itself was a nerve-jangling affair, a battle of skill and mental resilience. The Tigers, led by the unflappable Akbar Ali, displayed remarkable composure. Akbar, embodying the calm amidst chaos, anchored his team with a maturity that belied his years. Around him, his teammates rallied, each playing their part in a performance that was as disciplined as it was inspired.

A Historic Triumph

As the final moments unfolded, it became clear that Bangladesh had not only outplayed their opponents but had also won the mental game. Their victory was not one of sheer dominance but of calculated, composed brilliance. For a nation that mourns the sacrifices of the Language Movement every February, this triumph carried a deeper resonance. It was a reminder that perseverance, even in the face of insurmountable odds, can lead to glory.

The dawn of that Monday morning in Bangladesh was unlike any other. The rising sun symbolized a new era, its light piercing through the darkness of past failures. For the young Tigers, this was not the end but the beginning of a journey filled with promise.

The Road Ahead

While this victory is a cause for celebration, it is also a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead. The young Tigers must keep their feet firmly on the ground, for the journey to sustained greatness is long and arduous. They have shown the world what they are capable of, but consistency will be their ultimate test.

As Bangladesh cricket moves forward, the lessons of this triumph must not be forgotten. The ability to rise from heartbreak, to transform despair into determination, is what defines true champions. The Tigers have proven they can roar; now, they must ensure their roar echoes across generations.

In the words of Rumi, “The dawn is invincible.” For Bangladesh cricket, this dawn is not just a moment of light but a promise of a brighter future.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Rawalpindi Test: Bangladesh Undone by Naseem Storm

Day 3 at Rawalpindi was a tale of two halves for Bangladesh, where promise and poise in the morning gave way to chaos and capitulation by the evening. The morning session shone brightly for the visitors, mirroring the crisp sunshine that bathed the ground. Abu Jayed and Ebadat Hossain set the tone with disciplined, probing spells that rattled the Pakistani batting order.

Jayed, in particular, was the architect of control. His unwavering line-and-length in the corridor of uncertainty left the batters guessing. Babar Azam, the overnight anchor, fell prey to Jayed’s persistence, departing without adding to his score. Ebadat then joined the fray, extracting movement off the deck and striking at crucial junctures. After the drinks break, Rubel Hossain chipped in with wickets, his late seam movement proving difficult to negotiate despite the occasional expense.

The standout tactical manoeuvre of the morning was Jayed’s round-the-wicket assault on Haris Sohail. With precision, he targeted the middle and off stumps, creating angles that hinted at movement away or into the batter, depending on the line. This clever adjustment bore the fingerprints of bowling coach Ottis Gibson, whose expertise seemed reminiscent of his work with Stuart Broad in similar situations. Though Sohail counterattacked to swell Pakistan’s lead, the charged-up Bangladeshi bowlers managed to stem the flow and restrict further damage.

Bangladesh’s reply began on a steady note. Nazmul Hossain and Mominul Haque exhibited resilience and maturity, blunting the Pakistani attack with sound technique. Mominul curbed his tendency to flirt with deliveries outside off, while Nazmul’s solid defence suggested a partnership that could anchor the innings. For a while, it seemed Bangladesh had weathered the storm.

But then came the 41st over, and with it, the unravelling. Naseem Shah, the 16-year-old prodigy, delivered a spell that will be etched in Rawalpindi’s cricketing lore. His fourth ball of the over was full and jagged back sharply from wide of the crease, rapping Nazmul on the pads. Though it appeared to be sliding down leg, Azhar Ali’s astute review revealed the ball clipping the stumps. The defiant stand was broken.

The very next delivery, Naseem cranked up the pace, delivering a similar-length ball that proved too much for nightwatchman Taijul Islam. The stumps were shattered, and suddenly, Bangladesh found themselves staring at a hat-trick ball. Enter Mahmudullah Riyad, tasked with stemming the tide. Naseem, brimming with confidence, bowled wide outside off. Mahmudullah’s tentative push, devoid of foot movement, resulted in a straightforward catch at slip. History was made—Naseem Shah became the youngest bowler in Test cricket to claim a hat-trick, a feat not achieved by a Pakistani on home soil since Mohammad Sami in 2002.

The collapse didn’t end there. Mohammad Mithun, in a moment of inexplicable recklessness, attempted a wild shot against Yasir Shah’s zooter, gifting his wicket away. It was a stroke so ill-conceived that even tail-enders would shy away from such audacity in today’s game.

What made this implosion even more disheartening was how it overshadowed the promise shown earlier in the day. Bangladesh’s bowlers had fought valiantly to claw back into the match, and the top order had laid a foundation that hinted at resilience. But cricket is a game of sessions, and by the close of play, the story of Day 3 was one of the squandered opportunities and a young pacer’s moment of brilliance.

Bangladesh’s hard work in the morning was undone in a single over of magic and madness. It was a stark reminder of the fine margins in Test cricket, where moments of brilliance can undo hours of toil.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar