Lost a brother-like friend: Bangladesh A captain Anamul on civil unrest

Chosen as skipper for the Bangladesh A side, which will tour Pakistan for two four-day and three one-day matches against the Shaheens, Anamul Haque did not hold back his emotions while describing the loss of his friend in the student protests and the civil unrest that followed in the country before and after Sheikh Hasina's resignation as Prime Minister.  

"A friend, who was like a brother to me, died in the protests,” Bejoy told reporters in Dhaka on August 8 (Thursday), ahead of the team’s departure to Pakistan. “I get emotional when I think about him. I hope this tragedy and trauma doesn't happen to anyone. I was in Chattogram, so I couldn't reach my family in Dhaka,” added the right-handed batter. 

Pouring out his helplessness at the current situation in the country, the 31-year-old delved into the details of the night after Hasina’s resignation. "I was up from 2 am to 5 am. I was taking care of my child. I went down to see what was going on. I saw many people in the streets, guarding their property.” 

“I don't know what these people want,” he said, echoing the sentiments of most ordinary Bangladeshis. We don't want to live like this. We want to live in peace. Everyone deserves their fundamental rights. I think we all work honestly."

Bejoy, who has 8,074 first-class and 6,076 List-A runs, was reluctant to speak about two of Bangladesh’s most iconic cricketers Shakib Al Hasan and Mashrafe Mortaza. 

Both Shakib and Mortaza were Members of Parliament from the Awami League, whose government was ousted by the protesters. Mortaza’s house in Comilla was even put on fire.  

"I think it is up to the individual whether they want to talk about it or give a Facebook status. I think they can tell you better. They did what was best for them,” Bejoy said while answering questions regarding Shakib's and Mortaza’s response in trying situations for the countrymen. 

The man who will lead the A side against Shaheens in the first four-day match from August 13 was confident that the Bangladesh men’s cricket team would do well in the two-match Test series starting August 21.  

“There will be batting-friendly conditions there generally. It gives a chance to both sides. We are playing Tests after a long time too. I think we could give everyone something to cheer about,” he said. 

Bangladesh A’s Pakistan tour series schedule at the Islamabad Club

13-16 Aug – 1st four-day match vs Pakistan Shaheens

20-23 Aug – 2nd four-day match vs Pakistan Shaheens

26 Aug – 1st 50-over match vs Pakistan Shaheens

28 Aug – 2nd 50-over match vs Pakistan Shaheens

30 Aug – 3rd 50-over match vs Pakistan Shaheens

If you’ve not downloaded the Cricket.com app yet, you’re missing out — big time. Play Fantasy on Cricket.com NOW! Download the App here.