Mirpur Pitch: BCB Displeased By SBNS Pitch Conditions

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has expressed dismay at the state of the Mirpur pitch at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium (SBNS), distancing itself from the claim that it instructed the ground staff to prepare a low and slow surface. The pitch has never met expectations despite repeated efforts, says Nazmul Abedin, Chairman of Cricket Operations of BCB.

“There was a try to prepare a sporting wicket, but it failed. The ground authorities are responsible. There was never any instruction from the board’s side to prepare a slow and low Mirpur pitch,” added Nazmul.

Bangladesh vs Pakistan Series Draws Pitch Criticism

Even though Bangladesh won the 2-1 T20I series against Pakistan at SBNS, the win was marred by widespread criticism. Most of the observers have noted that the slow condition of the Mirpur track in the first two matches greatly hampered stroke-play, which benefited the home team. The third T20I, which was held on a marginally better-pitching surface, revealed the home team’s frailties.

This is not the first time that the Mirpur pitch has come under negative light. Such conditions have raised eyebrows in past series against strong teams like Australia, England, and New Zealand when the home team supposedly gained an advantage from the slow surface.

Continued Anger with Mirpur Pitch Condition

Nazmul Abedin came out in the open, criticizing the Mirpur pitch, pointing towards the usual concerns regarding soil structure and excessive usage.

“Several times we have attempted to produce a bouncier wicket, but it hasn’t worked out. We hear excuses that the soil is not suitable, the environmental conditions, or too much match fixing. The fact is: the Mirpur pitch is not up to the mark, and all accept that.” 

He further added that overhauling the pitch completely, including replacing the soil base or altering the preparation process altogether, could be the need of the hour.

Visibility Issues Due to Black Soil Highlighted

BCB President Aminul Islam had recently expressed misgivings over the black soil on use at Mirpur, saying that it compromises the visibility of the ball. Nazmul echoed his concern:

“Without grass cover, the white ball takes on the color of the black soil due to friction, making it more difficult for the batters to spot the ball. It’s a fair point raised by our board president.

Asia Cup 2025: A Team and HP Series Selection Hopes

Bangladesh, gearing up for the Asia Cup 2025, is taking a keen interest in how the A team fairs against the High Performance (HP) Unit of the side in the T20I series in Chattogram. Nazmul indicated that the players performing exceptionally well might get a chance to play in the national team.

“Some of the players in this series can find a place in the Asia Cup. The selectors are closely monitoring them. Even though they might have a team in their minds, outstanding performances may alter the situation.”

He also stressed the ultimate objective of developing replacement players for the senior side from these development teams.

Asia Cup 2025 Group B Line-Up

Bangladesh is placed in Group B along with Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan for the Asia Cup to be hosted in the UAE from September 9.

Time for a Serious Revamp of the Mirpur Pitch

With repeated criticism from both home and international cricket communities, it’s evident that the Mirpur pitch requires immediate attention. The BCB’s acknowledgment of the issue and openness to structural changes is a positive step forward. A better pitch not only promotes fairer competition but also enhances Bangladesh’s global cricket reputation.

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