The assertive look

THE game of cricket in its present form, many will perhaps agree, owes its origin to England. One may not take issue with the observation that in a manifestly class-conscious and stratified English society, cricket used to be the exclusive preserve of the upper class gentry. Interestingly enough, many Englishmen would like to believe that playing cricket was synonymous with behaving and acting in a fair and just manner. The premonition, as of now, is that developments in the world of cricket in the last few decades may have significantly disturbed those believing in the pristine virtues of the game.

There is no doubt that the present day spectators and enthusiasts of the game intensely enjoy the drastically truncated version with the attendant drama and excitement. However, the so-called old timers, the admirers of the unspoilt form would surely curse Kerry Packer, considered the progenitor of the shorter version, for divesting cricket of its original charm. They would hold him responsible for subjecting cricket to disconcertingly crass commercialism, an accusation that may not be wholly unfounded.

The debate and discourse between the protagonists and the antagonists on the style and format of the game may continue unabated and I am sure the voluble experts will continue to enlighten and entertain us on the emerging dynamics of this sport. This writer, is, however, particularly attracted to the behavioural facet of the game, specifically the altercation on field between players of the opposing sides, and if something interestingly indicative could be read into that.

Coming to specifics, could I draw attention to the now famous photograph of May 3 (The Daily Star) that very appropriately says: "A Change in Attitude Too: Tigers superstar Shakib Al Hasan matches Pakistan paceman Wahab Riaz word for word during the absorbing final session of the first Test at Sheikh Abu Naser Stadium in Khulna on Saturday". Quite interestingly it was Wahab Riaz of the underperforming Pakistan against Australia in the recently held World Cup who stole the limelight by his stunningly macho performance accompanied by the most graphical body language that made light of the 'sledging happy Australians', at least temporarily. A fascinating dimension of the whole episode is that the Australian crowd, including its top players, enjoyed and appreciated the nerve testing transaction.

This writer does not know at what point of time the expression 'sledging' (presumably slang meaning psychological bashing of the opponents by words and gestures) gained currency in cricketing parlance. It is also not known as to what measure the so-called sledging has accounted for the Australian cricketing prowess. Curiously it is not clear if sledging should constitute violation of the ICC (International Cricket Council) code of conduct.

Coming to the alleged verbal duel of Shakib Al Hasan and Wahab Riaz it is not known what actually transpired in the alleged altercation. This writer, no advocate of sledging as a performance-boosting tactic, was, however, greatly impressed by Shakib's matching aggression and fortitude. His forbearing conduct on the pitch also deserves recognition. Above all, his assertive look was an inspiring sight. Such assertion, undoubtedly, is the outcome of years of hard work and dedication. No wonder a determined Shakib could not be bullied or cowered by an overbearing Wahab Riaz. To the delight of many, Shakib stood his ground.

Our cricketers have no doubt given a sterling account of their cricketing abilities. However, I am not sure if it is time to brand us as a 'New Bangladesh' as far as cricketing performance goes. A circumspect view perhaps may be to watch a few more engagements in different time and clime. The signal achievement, to my mind, relates to the encouragingly assertive look tinged with a calm defiance writ large on the bearings of our performers. Distinguished Bangladeshis dedicated to branding Bangladesh may perhaps take note.

It is time to mentally decolonise and prove ourselves capable to perform against odds in heavier circumstances. Heartiest congratulations to a truly gritty Shakib Al Hasan and Company.

The writer is a columnist of the The Daily Star.