‘Never say never’

The Daily Star [TDS]: Bangladesh got a lot of major successes under your coaching, such as reaching the quarterfinal of the 2015 World Cup, the semifinal of the ICC Champions Trophy in 2017 and winning Tests at home against Australia and England with a new approach. Which one of those successes do you most cherish?

Chandika Hathurusingha [CH]: All of those you mentioned are fun memories and great to be part of but without the effort from players and my support staff, we couldn't have achieved anything. Credit must go to the senior players for agreeing with those approaches, especially at home in Test cricket.

TDS: There are many, including Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, who believe that you have been the most successful and impactful head coach and they credit you for taking Bangladesh to the next level. How do you evaluate yourself as the Tigers' head coach? 

CH: I think I was lucky to inherit a good core of senior players who wanted a bit of support and direction and with the help of a talented younger group, we managed to enjoy some success.

TDS: Where did you want to see Bangladesh in world cricket when you took up the job? What are the areas you think Bangladesh need to focus on to be among the top teams in the world?

CH: First thing we discussed when I got there was how we wanted to be remembered as a group in Bangladesh cricket history. Boys came up with the idea that they wanted to be unbeaten at home and wanted to be competitive in ICC limited-overs events. 

Second part of the question, if they play as team and not worry about failure, Bangladesh can be a strong team in world cricket.

TDS: After resigning during the South Africa tour in 2017, according to BCB President Nazmul Hassan, you cited the players' attitude and unprofessional behaviour as the reason behind stepping down. In the meantime, you were appointed head coach of Sri Lanka. Can you elaborate what actually happened?

CH: My resignation had nothing to do with players or the BCB board officials. It was a personal reason.

TDS: It was reported that most Bangladeshi cricketers were actually scared of you and saw you more like a strict teacher. But a majority of the cricketers also give you credit for cultivating the attacking mindset. Your take?

CH: I don't agree with your statement here. I know I challenged them to get better in every area of their game, attitude if that hindered their performance and the team's. And I supported them every time when they gave hundred percent to the team.

TDS: There was a sense of the Tigers having a point to prove in the first few exchanges against Sri Lanka, then your new team, after you left. Have you noticed it? 

CH: I actually did not notice that but I was quietly happy that they played an aggressive brand of cricket. That was the mindset I wanted to instil in them and encourage. So even after I left, when they followed up that was pleasing for me to see! 

TDS: Do you agree that you got the full support from the BCB, including the president, until you resigned? According to reports, BCB officials tried to convince you to reconsider.

CH: Yes, I got full support from BCB, especially the board president, vice-presidents and CEO. Later on, selectors were very supportive. Even the ground staff, including Gamini de Silva. They made sure we got the best facilities to train.

TDS: There was talk that you had a bitter relation with Shakib Al Hasan and you were behind Mahsrafe's decision to retire from the T20Is. There were also reports that Mominul Haque was not happy after he was typecast as a Test batsman during your stint. Would you like to respond?

CH: I had or have any personal agenda with anyone? For me, the Bangladesh national team is the most important! Whoever makes that team better, I supported.

TDS: Can we expect Chandika Hathurusingha to return to Bangladesh as the head coach in future?

CH: Never say never! I have a very special place in my heart for Bangladesh people and the cricket team! So I'll keep a keen eye on Bangladesh's progress on the world stage.