Ramin Talukder

The coronavirus halt has marred every athlete’s plans and 19-year-old Bangladesh spinner Nayeem Hasan is no exception. The youngster, who was in fine fettle before the enforced break, talked to The Daily Star’s Ramin Talukdar over phone, sharing insights into his life during the pandemic. The following are excerpts from that conversation:

In an interview with The Daily Star last month, Bangladesh batting consultant Neil McKenzie stressed the importance of players using this coronavirus-induced break to reflect on their careers.

Rumana Ahmed started her cricketing journey playing in the courtyard at home. Before that she fell in love with the game while watching matches on TV.

On working on fitness under lockdown: It’s a difficult thing to sit at home when you are a sportsperson. I’m trying to work at home with the little means I have. I got a dumbbell online to do what I can manage.

It is not unusual for any individual to be demoralised and frustrated during the coronavirus pandemic that has seen the world come to a standstill.

Cricket is undoubtedly the most beloved and followed sport in Bangladesh. People across the country get excited just to see the likes of Tamim Iqbal and Mushfiqur Rahim in action and to know their stories.

During this time of crisis when the whole world is fighting the spread of coronavirus, the roles played by the country’s footballers and cricketers have earned a lot of praise. Starting from premier all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan to footballer Jamal Bhuyian -- all the players

The coronavirus outbreak has taken a huge toll on human lives and impacted the economy worldwide. Major sporting events were halted around the globe a week ago, with clubs even around Europe facing bankruptcy and struggling to pay staff.

Sabbir Rahman was once considered one of Bangladesh’s most formidable promising prospects. His ability to find more time when facing faster bowlers was counted on by the team management and his progress in away conditions saw his star rise in Bangladesh cricket after coming onto the scene in 2014.

It is very much a cry for help in the desert. Allegations of widespread corruption in the lower-tier circuits of Bangladesh cricket has been a recurring theme over the past few years.