How Sylhet has become a hotbed for producing cricketers

Sylhet, a picturesque region in northeastern Bangladesh, has become a surprising yet undeniable hub for cricketing talent, particularly fast bowlers.

Once overshadowed by cricketing strongholds such as Rajshahi and Khulna, Sylhet now stands out as a breeding ground for both pace and promise. This transformation has been driven by grassroots development, committed coaching, and the unyielding dedication of its players, all combining to create an inspiring story of cricketing resurgence.

The region's natural environment plays a significant role in favouring fast bowling. With lush, green outfields and pitches that offer assistance to pacers, Sylhet provides ideal conditions for nurturing fast-bowling talent. Rajin Saleh, former national cricketer and current Sylhet coach, highlights the significance of these natural advantages. "In Sylhet, the environment naturally favours fast bowlers," he explains. The pitches, regarded as some of the best in the country, are meticulously maintained. Initially managed by Indian groundsmen, these wickets are now in the capable hands of Bangladeshi experts, who have mastered the art of creating pacer-friendly surfaces. Such high-quality facilities are a rarity in Bangladesh and have been instrumental in Sylhet's cricketing rise.

Beyond the natural advantages, the emergence of Sylhet's cricketing talent is deeply rooted in the efforts of unsung grassroots coaches. Saleh credits individuals such as Nazmul Hossain, Rashed in Moulvibazar, and Rana Miah in Sylhet for identifying and nurturing young players. "Players like Al Fahad and Iqbal Hossain Emon, who are now with the Under-19 team, were developed in Moulvibazar," he notes. These dedicated coaches have played a pivotal role in building a strong pipeline of talent. Their work, often behind the scenes, ensures that raw potential is refined into competitive skill.

Equally important is the leadership provided by former players who have transitioned into coaching roles. Rajin Saleh and Nazmul Hossain, two prominent figures in Sylhet cricket, have brought a wealth of experience and professionalism to the local cricketing scene. Saleh's journey as a coach began in 2019 when he took charge of Sylhet's team for the National Cricket League (NCL). His initial approach was strict, aiming to instil discipline and professionalism in a team that had languished in Tier 2 of the competition for nearly two decades. "I was harsh with the players to instil discipline, and I think many of them were unhappy with me at the time," he admits. However, this tough-love approach paid dividends, with Sylhet earning promotion to Tier 1 in Saleh's very first season as coach.

Nazmul Hossain, meanwhile, has focused on developing Sylhet's fast-bowling talent. A former national team player himself, Hossain has worked with numerous promising bowlers, including Al Fahad, Tanzim Sakib, and Rejaur Rahman Raja. His experience as a player and his understanding of the game have enabled him to mentor a new generation of pacers. "Fast bowling talent in Sylhet isn't new," he observes, noting that the region has a rich history of producing fast bowlers. Hossain's efforts ensure that Sylhet's legacy as a fast-bowling hub remains intact.

The success of Sylhet's bowlers is complemented by the emergence of talented batters, although their journey has been more challenging. The region's pitches, while ideal for pacers, are less conducive to batting development. Alok Kapali, a former cricketer from Sylhet, points out the difficulties faced by local batters. "For good batters to develop, you need quality pitches and enough match opportunities, which we lack," he explains. Despite these challenges, players like Amite Hasan and Jaker Ali Anik have managed to rise above the limitations. 

Hasan, in particular, has been a standout performer. Over five years, Saleh has worked intensively with him, refining his technique, mindset, and consistency. This dedication culminated in Hasan's stellar performance during Sylhet's recent championship-winning campaign, where he contributed nearly 50% of the team's runs.

The transformation of Sylhet cricket is not a one-man effort but rather a collective achievement. Saleh is quick to acknowledge the contributions of local academies such as Green Sylhet Academy and Sylhet Surma Academy, as well as the countless grassroots coaches who have dedicated themselves to the sport. "This has been possible because everyone worked together," he emphasises. The willingness of Sylhet's players to invest in their own development has also been crucial. Many travel to Dhaka for better training facilities, often at their own expense, demonstrating an extraordinary level of commitment.

However, the journey is far from complete. "Winning the NCL championship this year was a collective achievement, but I still see gaps, particularly in our batting unit," Saleh admits. While Sylhet's bowlers have consistently delivered, the team's reliance on them is not sustainable in the long term. Strengthening the batting lineup remains a priority, and Saleh's strategic approach of setting specific goals for players aims to address this issue over time.

Sylhet's young T20 team also holds great promise, though it remains a work in progress. The team, the youngest in the competition, has shown flashes of brilliance but lacks the consistency needed to succeed in the shortest format. Saleh remains optimistic, believing that with nurturing and experience, the team can become a formidable force in the years to come.

The rise of Sylhet mirrors the shifting cricketing landscape of Bangladesh. Once dominated by regions like Rajshahi and Khulna, the spotlight has now shifted to Sylhet, thanks to a perfect combination of natural advantages, strategic coaching, and unyielding player determination. Alok Kapali summarises this transformation succinctly: "Sylhet's players have a stronger desire to represent the national team. They want long careers and are willing to put in the effort."

As Sylhet continues to produce stars for Bangladesh cricket, its story serves as an inspiring blueprint for grassroots development. With the right investments in facilities and coaching, Sylhet's rise may just be the beginning of a new era in Bangladeshi cricket. The region's journey from an underdog to a powerhouse not only highlights the importance of collaboration and dedication but also offers hope for other regions aspiring to make their mark on the national stage. As Rajin Saleh, Nazmul Hossain, and their team continue to build on this legacy, the future of Sylhet cricket looks brighter than ever.

CURRENT CENTRALLY CONTRACTED PLAYERS FROM SYLHET

Khaled Ahmed, Pacer (2018- present) - Sylhet 15 Tests, 2 ODIs 

Ebadot Hossain, Pacer (2019- present) -  Kathaltali 20 Tests, 12 ODIs, 4 T-20s

Nasum Ahmed, Spinner (2021- present) - Sylhet 18 ODIs, 35 T-20s

Jaker Ali, WK-Batsman (2023- present) - Habiganj 3 Tests, 5 ODIs, 22 T-20s

Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Pacer (2023- present)- Balaganj 9 ODIs, 18 T-20s