Australia win belongs to those who built Bangladesh's Test journey: Tamim

Bangladesh Cricket Board president Tamim Iqbal believes the country's historic Test victory in Australia belongs not only to the players who achieved it, but also to generations of cricketers who endured years of struggle, criticism and humiliation while building Bangladesh's place in Test cricket.

Speaking at a reception hosted by the Cricketers' Welfare Association of Bangladesh for the Test team that recently toured Australia, Tamim said the significance of the victory could only be understood by looking back at Bangladesh's long journey in the format.

"If we rewind our lives a little, probably you guys will understand where this started," Tamim said, recalling the period when Bangladesh were seeking Test status and former players had to endure criticism while trying to establish the country in international cricket.

"This Test win is for you," he said.

Tamim also remembered the former cricketers who played when facilities were limited and recognition was scarce. He said there were times when players had to clean wet grounds themselves or help prepare pitches because the necessary equipment was unavailable.

"There was no fame, no money, no media. But you played simply for the love of the game and for the country you represented," he said. "This win is for you."

The BCB president said Bangladesh's success in Australia was particularly emotional because few people could have imagined the team winning there, let alone dominating an opponent regarded as one of the strongest sides in Test cricket.

The series ended 1-1, with Bangladesh recording a historic victory in Darwin before Australia levelled the series in Mackay.

Tamim described the result as an answer to years of questions and criticism faced by current and former players.
He then turned his attention to the people currently representing Bangladesh, saying the Board's responsibility should be to serve the cricketers rather than make itself the centre of attention.

"We are not the priority. You guys are the priority," he said. "We will do anything and everything to facilitate you so that you get the best of the best things."

Tamim identified two things he believes cricketers want most from the system: respect and stability.

He said players need greater financial security for their families and suggested the BCB should gradually reach a position where earnings through cricket are sufficient for players to manage their lives without constant financial uncertainty.

At the same time, he stressed that better support must come with greater responsibility. Players, he said, must follow the rules not only with the national team but also in domestic cricket.

Tamim also called for unity around Bangladesh cricket, saying criticism of the Board was acceptable but should not divide people when it came to supporting cricketers.

"When it comes to cricket and cricketers, we should be one," he said.

Looking ahead, Tamim set a different target for the current generation. With the Asia Cup approaching and Bangladesh hosting the tournament, he urged the players to focus on winning a trophy.

"We haven't had a trophy yet. The Asia Cup is coming. It's a great opportunity," he said.

For Tamim, the Australia victory was therefore both a celebration of the past and a challenge for the future: honour those who built Bangladesh cricket, protect those playing today, and give the next generation something tangible to celebrate.