In the lead-up to the ODI series between Ireland and Bangladesh at Chelmsford, freelance cricket writer Tawhid Qureshi explored the often-overlooked British Bangladeshi fanbase and the history of Bangladeshi cricket in the Country, and in Essex.
On the face of it the World Cup Super League matches between Ireland and Bangladesh at Chelmsford is just another series of ODIs ahead of this year’s World Cup, albeit an important one for Ireland given that their direct World Cup qualification hopes rest on the outcome. But for the British Bangladeshi community in Essex and beyond, the series represents something perhaps even more significant than World Cup glory; it’s a rare chance to glimpse their heroes in the flesh.
Bangladesh’s visits to England are curiously infrequent; this will be their first match on English soil since 2019 and they have only been invited twice to play a series against England in England. The dearth of Bangladesh players in county cricket or The Hundred, only adds to the sense that Bangladesh cricket has been largely invisible in England.
However, Bangladesh are on an upward trajectory, particularly in white ball cricket, as demonstrated in the recent 3-0 T20I win against England and comprehensive white ball series wins against Ireland in Bangladesh. These positive results has meant that fans are even more eager to see the team showcase their talents.
Bangladesh’s unique association with Essex goes back to the 1999 World Cup when they played a warm-up match against Essex and a group stage match against New Zealand at Chelmsford. Essex have clearly been keen to leverage this established relationship and tap into the growing excitement of the local Bangladesh community. Various engagement activity has ensured that the Bangladesh community have been integral to the organising and staging of the series.
One example of this was the selection of net bowlers from British Bangladeshi club players, who were used during Bangladesh’s practice sessions. This brought about the enticing prospect of amateurs facing their idols. It was certainly an awe-inspiring experience for one of the net bowlers, Manchester University student Khaled Awdri, “I grew up watching legends such as Mushi (Mushfiqur Rahim), I couldn’t believe he was batting in front of me. I’m a big fan of Ebadot (Hossain) too, it was lovely to see his bowling action close-up”, he said.
In addition, throughout the series, the pre-match bell will be rung by different unsung heroes from the Bangladesh community, who have each made a significant contribution to promoting cricket. Jusnara Khanom has been chosen for her dedication to coaching and delivering the Dynamos, All Stars and Chance to Shine female cricket programmes. Similarly, Emdad Rahman was selected for inspiring young people and for volunteering over a 20 year period.
As the President of the UK Bangladesh Cricket Supporters Association, Abdus Salam is steeped in cricket tradition and a long serving member of the community. “I never believed I would be asked to ring the pre-match bell, it’s such a huge honour. I’m so happy to be doing it, particularly as it’s during a Bangladesh match. I’m also grateful to those who nominated me”, he enthused.
Abdus Salam, President of the UK Bangladesh Cricket Supporters Association
Regardless of the results on the pitch and the threat of adverse weather, the series is bound to be a memorable occasion for the often overlooked army of UK based Bangladesh supporters.
Tawhid Qureshi is a freelance cricket writer who focuses on Bangladesh cricket, his twitter handle is @SightScreenCJ and his website is sightscreencj.com
Final tickets available for Friday
There are still a handful of tickets left for the ODI between Ireland and Bangladesh this Friday 12 May. It’s the only game left in the series with tickets available, and they can be purchased from £25 for adults and £10 for juniors.
