No One in Bangladesh Can Become a Virat Kohli, Even If They Want To

Bangladesh stepped into Test cricket 25 years ago, aiming to become one of the world’s elite teams. Yet, as the nation celebrates its silver jubilee in Test cricket, a question arises—where does the reality stand now? Former captains have reflected on the past, analysed the present, and shared their thoughts about the future of Bangladesh cricket.

Former captain Akram Khan said, “When we played our first Test, we dreamed of being among the top four teams. But that dream never came true. When we gained Test status, we had no home ground and very limited facilities. Now we have stadiums, better opportunities, and financially independent players—but we still haven’t reached the expected level.”

He further added, “Ten to fifteen years ago, even with fewer facilities, a player of Shakib Al Hasan’s calibre emerged. Now we have more opportunities, but a lack of mindset remains. The problem with our players is that they become satisfied too easily and lose heart too quickly.”

Another former captain, Khaled Mashud, stated, “India, Australia and England are now at a point where growth is limited, but Bangladesh had vast potential. Wrong planning, incompetent people and a flawed system have held us back. Infrastructure hasn’t developed, and sports as a whole remain stagnant. The cricket culture in Bangladesh is such that no one can become a Virat Kohli, even if they wish to.”

He also mentioned, “For us, Mirpur has become everything. Yet, even in a city like Raipur in India, where the IPL doesn’t take place, the facilities are better than ours. Poor planning and a lack of capable leadership have stopped our cricket from moving forward.”

Habibul Bashar remarked, “Even after 25 years, there’s no consistency in our Test team. Our batsmen haven’t developed the habit of playing big innings. Once someone starts playing Tests, he disappears from domestic cricket. But mental toughness, which is crucial for long innings, can only be built through domestic cricket.”

He added, “In modern cricket, white-ball formats are easier and more profitable, so everyone leans towards them. But it’s the coach’s responsibility to make players realise that true improvement comes through red-ball cricket. Playing long innings demands patience, endurance and mental strength—qualities that our players still need to build.”

Khaborwala/SJ