When bangladesh started playing cricket
Cricket is much more than a sport in Bangladesh; it’s nearly a way of life, especially for the youth who aspire to represent their nation on the international platform. The popularity of cricket as a sport in Bangladesh has exploded over recent years, leading many people to wonder when this love affair with cricket began.
Origins of Cricket Playing in Bangladesh
The history of cricket in Bangladesh dates back to the late 18th century during the period of British colonial rule. However, the game didn’t gain much recognition until later due to the popularity of football. It wasn’t until 1972, after the liberation war and its consequent independence, that cricket began to take root seriously among Bangladeshi communities. In many ways, this was an effort by the newly independent country to foster a sense of national unity and identity.
Formation of Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB)
In 1974, only two years after gaining independence from Pakistan following a bloody nine-month-long war, the government formed the Bangladesh Board of Control for Cricket (BCCB). It was also when Bangladesh became associated with International Cricket Council (ICC) and cricket started being played at domestic level regularly.
The Journey from Novice to World Cup Players
Bangladesh showed promise early on, with intermittent successes in local tournaments organized by Asian Cricket Council. But it was not until 1988 that they took part in their debut ODI against Pakistan during Asia cup. Though there weren’t any notable achievements initially, these games were important milestones because they marked countries emergence onto international platform.
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1997: A Defining Year for Bangladesh’s Cricket
One may say that it all truly started for real in 1997 when Bangladesh team won ICC trophy tournament held in Malaysia. This victory secured them a place in prestigious World Cup which was to be held in 1999, taking the entire nation by surprise and renewing interest in cricket like never before. The Bangladesh team put on commendable performances during the World Cup matches and their journey was closely followed by their fellow countrymen.
The Beginning of Test Matches
In June 2000, having shown potential for improvement and growth as a cricketing unit, Bangladesh achieved its Test Status; twenty years after playing their first ODI match. Though early years were marked by ups and downs with more losses than wins, it provided valuable experience to the Bangladesh Team which in turn helped them improve tremendously.
Notable Achievements
Since playing their first international match, the Bangladeshi cricket team has come a long way over the course of four decades. Their impressive victories include defeating Pakistan in 1999, India & South Africa in 2007 World Cup and most notably England in both 2011 & 2015 World Cups. These triumphs have fueled aspirations among the younger generation who see these cricketers as national heroes.
Bangladesh In T20 International Cricket
Apart from ODI (One Day Internationals) and Tests, Bangladesh has made considerable strides in T20 format of international cricket too. They played their first-ever Twenty20 International game against Zimbabwe at Khulna in November 2006.
Cricket Today: More Than Just A Game
Looking back on where they started compared to where they are today, clearly shows how far Bangladesh has come in terms of cricket. With significant investments being made into infrastructure development, coaching facilities & grass root level talent hunt – cricket’s future looks promisingly bright here.
Today, every victory on this global platform fosters an outpouring of national pride that only further reinforces love for this beautiful game across the country.
