BCB's wrong-footed bowler - A sculpture that sums up the state of cricket in Bangladesh
Critics argue that such an error in the national cricket stadium is glaringly inappropriate, particularly when compared to the statues of legendary players in other countries.
The Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur is often referred to as the "Home of Cricket" for Bangladesh. With good reason, this stadium has become synonymous with the nation's cricketing identity, serving as the central hub for major decisions made by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Most of the national team's matches, training camps, and even significant tournaments—such as the 2014 T20 World Cup, the 2016 U19 World Cup, and several games during the 2011 ODI World Cup—have been hosted here. Furthermore, the stadium is the primary venue for the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) matches.
However, at this iconic ground, there exists a peculiar installation—a sculpture of a bowler frozen mid-delivery, which was created incorrectly. Upon entering through Gate 2, to the right, one can spot the sculpture of a right-handed bowler delivering the ball with his right foot forward. This delivery stance, known in cricket as a "wrong-footed delivery," defies the natural laws of balance and biomechanics. Normally, a right-arm bowler steps forward with their left foot to maintain balance while delivering the ball. The sculpture's stance is anatomically implausible.
Origins of the Flawed Sculpture
This sculpture was erected before the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup. The issue was evident during its creation, yet it was dismissed with remarks such as, "It's acceptable." The sculpture was ultimately designed by the late sculptor Mrinal Haque, although engineer Masudur Rahman Khan, who oversaw much of the stadium's construction, initially claimed ownership of its design. Later, upon recognising the error, he attributed the design to Mrinal Haque, admitting the mistake but downplaying its significance.
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The Criticism and Ignorance
At the time of its unveiling, the sculpture was widely criticised, drawing ridicule from journalists and cricket fans alike. Despite this, over the years, people seem to have grown accustomed to it, and the flawed stance no longer sparks amusement or outrage as it once did.
Critics argue that such an error in the national cricket stadium is glaringly inappropriate, particularly when compared to the statues of legendary players in other countries, where meticulous attention is given to accuracy. A former cricketer, speaking anonymously, stated, "While the mistake may not be monumental, it's certainly not insignificant either. Having such a flawed installation in the heart of Bangladesh cricket is embarrassing, especially when international teams visit. This sculpture should have been replaced long ago."
Bureaucratic Hurdles
The National Sports Council (NSC), which owns the stadium, requires BCB to seek approval for any additions or alterations to the venue. Despite various renovations under the current administration, no steps have been taken to address the sculpture. NSC Secretary Aminul Islam acknowledged the issue, describing it as a "noticeable flaw" but refrained from elaborating on immediate corrective actions.
Nizam Uddin Chowdhury has long served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). However, he appeared reluctant to comment on the matter. When asked by TBS whether he had ever noticed or considered addressing the existence of a flawed structure that has persisted for so long, he responded, "I cannot comment on this at the moment. It was constructed in 2011. Whether it would be reasonable to comment on it after so many years, I am not sure. It may not be appropriate for me to speak on this. The opinions of experts in this matter could be more valuable."
A Symbol of Neglect?
The sculpture remains a permanent fixture at Mirpur Stadium, serving as a testament to overlooked errors and complacency. In the words of one expert, "Every project reflects the mindset and planning behind it. While mistakes are human, allowing them to persist for this long is a greater fault."
As renovations continue at the stadium, whether the flawed bowler sculpture will finally be corrected or removed remains uncertain. Until then, it stands as a unique, albeit awkward, marker of Bangladesh cricket's home ground.
