Tuhin Tarafder has been representing the Bangladesh national kabaddi team for seven long years. The 36-year-old, who possesses the experience of playing in the Indian Pro-Kabaddi League, has led his country to clinch the Bangabandhu Cup International Kabaddi Tournament for the third time in a row after beating Chinese Taipei in the title-decider. In an exclusive interview with The Daily Star's Sabbir Hossain, the Bangladesh captain shared his views on where the culturally deep-rooted sport stands at present, the collective ambition and more, the excerpts of which are as follows:   

The Daily Star (DS):  Bangladesh won the Bangabandhu Cup International Kabaddi Tournament for the third time in a row at home last month. What is the significance of that victory?

Tuhin Tarafder (TT): Performance and results in kabaddi, our national sport, had declined a few years ago. Through the Bangabandhu Cup, however, we had the chance to put ourselves to the test. We won the trophy by defeating the teams we had previously lost to, which gave us more confidence. These three competitions were really helpful in giving our athletes experience.

DS: The last three Asian Games have seen Bangladesh without a medal. What steps are in place to bring back the glory days?

TT: To adequately prepare for the Asian Games, the Bangladesh Kabaddi Federation has taken several actions. Next month, we will go to India for training. Bangladesh will take part in another competition that will take place in South Korea. We have also been given the opportunity to play for Indian kabaddi clubs. Therefore, the federation is doing its best and if we can improve ourselves in line with that, we may aspire to win a medal at the Asian Games in China.

DS: In the Bangabandhu Cup, some of the young players have garnered attention. How would you rate them?

TT: Four or five of our most seasoned players, who also participated in the Kabaddi World Cup, were absent from the most recent competition due to injuries. Despite having won the first two Bangabandhu Cups, we had a tough battle. However, compared to our youthful guns who put in a lot of work, we won this time very handily. Mizanur Rahman, Al Amin, Shahid Mia, and Russell Mia among others had excelled, which is excellent news for us. Future victories will be easier for us if they can maintain consistency.

DS: Tell us about your role on the court as a seasoned player and team captain.

TT: When I first received captaincy, I had some hesitation about myself. However, as time passed, I began to feel more secure and at ease while fulfilling my duty with a clear head and guiding my compatriots. Now I really enjoy the game and know which decisions to make at what point. So, I'm hoping that if I can put my experience to good use in the Asian Games, we can achieve second or third place.

DS: What's your take on the initiatives taken by the existing committee of the federation?

TT: There was a period in the middle when the federation failed to supply the facilities we required. However, the current committee is striving hard to achieve success on the Asian and global stages. They aspire to see Bangladesh win major championships. It is not currently attainable, but if they continue to work hard, the dream may come true in the future.