Another failed test

Bangladesh Cricket team arrived in Zimbabwe for two Tests and five ODIs. The small Bangladeshi community was ecstatic. The two teams are ranked 9th and 10th respectively in the world cricket. Theoretically, if Bangladesh can beat any team, it should be Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe scored 441 in the first innings. Bangladesh bowling was very disciplined within its own limitation. There were only 2 no balls and 5 wides in the two innings of 684 runs. In the first innings, Bangladesh lost three quick wickets. The Tigers fought back well. Shariar (48), Rajin (49), Mushfiq (44) and Rana (35) played sensibly. But the hero of the day was definitely young Ashraful (98). I was watching the game in companion with the Zimbabwean Cricket officials including Mr. Peter Chingoka, the President of ZCU. Everyone was full of praise for Ashraful. Some were comparing a number of his shots with those of Tendulker. Though the Zimbabweans were happy for Heath Streak getting his 200th Test wicket, each of them felt sad for Ashraful. We were heartbroken. Bangladesh reached 311. We were reasonably happy.

Zimbabwe declared their second innings with an overall lead of 352 runs. The pitch was slow but it did not deteriorate even on the 4th day evening. Considering that Streak was unable to bowl, a draw was possible with outside chance for a Bangladesh win. Then the thunder struck. The boys put us into a ten-ball shame. It was a procession of zombies. Five wickets tumbled, as if our boys were under the spell of a black magic. It was irresponsibility of the highest order. We left the field, bitter and downcast.

The boys batted responsibly on the last day, but the die had been cast. Bangladesh failed another test. Shariar, Rajin, Mushfiq, Ashraful all failed under pressure of nearing milestones like fifties and hundreds. Rajin failed twice scoring 49 and 47. I am not a specialist, but it is evident that the boys lack mental toughness. Loss of five wickets in ten balls is nothing but cracking under pressure. Dave Whatmore seems to have done well in improving their technique. Would some one instil mental and physical toughness in the boys needed to compete at the highest level?