Bangladesh marked 25 years in Test cricket this year, a journey that began with high hopes and ambitious dreams. When the nation entered the elite ranks of the game, fans and players alike imagined producing world-class talents capable of competing with the very best. Yet, as the silver jubilee approaches, former captains agree: the reality is far more sobering than the vision once held.
Akram Khan, who captained Bangladesh in the early years, reminisced, “When we played our first Test, our dream was to be among the top four Test nations. But that dream remains distant. At the time we were granted Test status, we didn’t even have proper grounds or adequate training facilities. Over the years, infrastructure and financial security for players have improved, but we still haven’t reached the level we aspired to.”
He further reflected on mindset issues: “Even with limited opportunities, players like Shakib Al Hasan emerged as world-class. Today, with far greater resources, players seem less driven. Many become easily satisfied or lose confidence when challenges arise.”
Khaled Mashud, another former captain, echoed these concerns. “Cricket powerhouses such as India, Australia, and England have reached a stage where growth is incremental. Bangladesh, on the other hand, had room to grow. Yet, poor planning, wrong decisions, and a weak system have held us back. Our infrastructure hasn’t developed properly, and sports culture in general remains stagnant. Frankly, no one here can become a Virat Kohli, even if they genuinely want to.”
He highlighted an alarming contrast with neighbouring countries: “During a visit to Raipur in India, I saw facilities far superior to ours, even though it’s not a major cricketing hub. Meanwhile, Mirpur has become the centre of everything in Bangladesh. The lack of strategic planning and competent leadership has prevented our cricket from reaching its potential.”
Habibul Bashar, another former captain, stressed the importance of mental strength. “Even after 25 years, we haven’t achieved stability in our Test team. Our batters struggle to play long innings because once they join the Test squad, they disappear from domestic cricket. Mental toughness is built through regular first-class cricket, not just exposure to international matches.”
He continued, “Modern cricket has made limited-overs formats more attractive. There’s less hard work and more financial reward. But it’s the coaches’ responsibility to instil an understanding that real improvement comes through the rigours of red-ball cricket. Test cricket teaches discipline, patience, and resilience — qualities many of our players shy away from.”
Bashar concluded: “Playing long innings demands adaptation, concentration, and determination. Scoring a century should not be the ultimate goal; aiming higher is essential. Only with this mindset can Bangladesh cultivate a strong Test culture and aspire to match the world’s best.”