Bangladesh's abysmal performance at the World Cup has ignited calls for sweeping changes, pushing players out of their comfort zones and demanding a radical overhaul of a domestic cricket system that has long grappled with allegations of corruption and mismanagement.
The World Cup witnessed Bangladesh's unfortunate elimination as they suffered a crushing seven-wicket defeat to Pakistan in Kolkata, marking them as the first team to exit the tournament. Pakistan's resounding victory, with 105 balls to spare, left Bangladesh with no hopes of advancing, even with two rounds of matches remaining.
Their campaign began on a positive note with a six-wicket win over Afghanistan. However, it took a nosedive as they succumbed to six consecutive losses. This not only dashed their semi-final aspirations but also jeopardised their qualification for the 2025 Champions Trophy.
The defeats included a 137-run loss to England, an eight-wicket drubbing by New Zealand, a seven-wicket setback against India, a 149-run thrashing by South Africa, and an unexpected 87-run loss to the non-test-playing Netherlands. Bangladesh's misery was finally sealed by Pakistan.
Bangladesh had entered the World Cup by finishing third in the Super League qualification tournament, just behind New Zealand and defending champions England. However, many of their victories came on home turf, where the playing conditions suited their style of cricket.
Bishwajit Roy, sports editor of the Daily Star newspaper, highlighted the evolving nature of international cricket, where players need to excel in various aspects of the game, such as hitting multiple sixes in an over and accurate bowling. He pointed out that the consistent exposure to low and slow wickets at home hindered Bangladesh players from developing the necessary skills.
Renowned local coach Nazmul Abedin Fahim suggested a transformation in Bangladesh's domestic cricket structure to provide a more challenging environment for players, which would better prepare them for the international stage. The issues of poor wickets, subpar umpiring, and match-fixing allegations have been persistent in Bangladesh's domestic cricket.
Fahim emphasised the need to address the root problems rather than focusing on superficial changes. He argued that players must face challenges in local cricket to perform effectively in international matches and receive better coaching at the local level.
The disparity between Bangladesh's domestic cricket and international results became evident during their overseas endeavors. Even top run-getters like Anamul Haque and Mohammad Naim from the Dhaka Premier League struggled to secure a spot in the World Cup squad.
Bangladesh's World Cup preparations were marred by controversy, including the controversial exclusion of Tamim Iqbal and a subsequent verbal clash between captain Shakib Al Hasan and the dropped batsman, creating a disconcerted atmosphere. This tumultuous environment translated into lackluster performances.
In a tournament characterised by record-breaking run scoring, Bangladesh's highest total was a meagre 256 against India. With several players who have served the team for nearly two decades nearing the twilight of their careers, the future of Bangladesh's cricket hangs in the balance. Captain Shakib Al Hasan, along with veteran batsmen Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah, is unlikely to participate in another World Cup, given their advancing ages. Mahmudullah, the top run-scorer for Bangladesh at the World Cup, will turn 38 in February, while Tamim, overlooked for the World Cup, is also approaching the conclusion of his international career.
