. PHOTO: AFP

The cricket world witnessed the addition of a fresh page in the game's history book on January 10, 2005 when Bangladesh outplayed Zimbabwe in the first encounter of the two-Test series at Chittagong, to clinch their first ever win in the longer version of the game.

Warmest felicitations from all go to Habibul Bashar and other members of the team for creating a red-letter day in the country's cricket history. The success, would, no doubt, bring a great relief to the countrymen after a string of failures in the international arena. Of course, last month's memorable ODI win against India helped the team to boost up a lot in addition to coach Whatmore's relentless inspirational wordings.

Bangladesh, no doubt, created sensation but it should be remembered that over-enthusiasm and over-confidence can bring quick downfall. The point should be noted by the red and green boys.

I think this victory of Bangladesh cricket team was a much needed one and we are happy that now our boys have proved that they have the ability to play top class cricket. They have the ability to perform and compete at international level but after some dismal performance in recent times, we were really very disappointed. However, the Tigers have shown that they can win Test matches! It took a long time for India and New Zealand to register their first Test victory but compared to them, our boys have done it for us quite early.

However, we shouldn't look back now. It is time to move forward and I believe they are on the right track now.

I would like to convey my heartfelt thanks to all the Bangladeshi cricketers and of course to coach Whatmore for presenting us a perfect New Year's gift! Shabash! ...keep it up!

Nazmus Saquib Mayakanan, Basabo, Dhaka

At last the dream has come true. The wait is over, the jinx has broken. Bangladesh scored their first Test victory over Zimbabwe. Lots of accolade to the cricketers. The victory is sweeter because it has come after long four years and 35 Tests. We all have been waiting for this moment for a long time.

This was a total team effort, everyone of the team had some contribution to this victory. The batting prowess of Habibul Bashar, Rajin Saleh, Nafis Iqbal, all-round performance from Rafiq, Mortaza and Khaled Masud, and bowling of Tapash and Enamul Jr. helped the team to earn their maiden victory. The players had a goal and they reached the goal convincingly. They had passion, they were eager to win the match and at last they got it. The tears that came from Mortaza's eyes told the whole story. Congratulations to all of them.

Though Bangladesh won but I had a desire unfulfilled-- I couldn't watch the match live in the stadium. I had planned to go to Chittagong to watch the making of history but had to cancel the trip for personal reasons. So I remained glued to the TV for five days and watched the 'match of our life'.

Solaiman Palash Dhaka

At last we got this long expected victory. I had thought (on the basis of our previous performance) that our grandsons might see such a victory but our heroes proved me wrong. I'm very much delighted with this victory and writing this letter with my hand trembling in joy. The victory has enlivened the whole nation.

As a nation we are ill-fated. We had very few events to be delighted about in a decade. At first, I'll congratulate our team leader Habibul Bashar and all the members of Bangladesh national cricket team for presenting us such a glorious win.

Our Test status was questioned by some cricket pundits and I hope this victory will help them assess the position rather positively.

I hope our cricket will prosper day by day with this great win.

Dr. Chowdhury Jalal Uddin Murshed (Rumi) Medical Officer, Diabetic Hospital, Sylhet