In conversation with Taskin Ahmed, the right-arm fast bowler for Bangladesh National Cricket Team.
Photographs from Raw Nation
Taskin Ahmed is no different from the boy-next-door. The affability in his voice is quite palpable. But wait till the topic shifts to cricket and you can feel the undying passion he harbours for the sport. Taskin was at his very best in the match against England’s Under 19s in 2012. Hard and fast, the ball magically zoomed past the batsman and hit the wicket-keeper’s gloves, which made him an internet sensation overnight. The tall, fast bowler with high-arm action soon made it clear that he was here to stay and conquer our hearts. It was one of those rain-drenched monsoon evenings when we got a chance to have him for a phone interview. The idea was to know more about his philosophies regarding youth, fashion, and challenges that life has to offer.
As a boy, Taskin wanted to become a pilot, which soon was replaced by his desire to join the army. But eventually the cricket fever caught onto him and 2007 was the year when he first set foot on the Abahani field for an audition. However, his journey into cricket was not a walk in the park. Many a time, his evening classes conflicted with his practice in the field.
And over time, Taskin became the cricketing star he is today. He is also pursuing BBA at American International University, Bangladesh. Although, it’s tough to find a balance between academics and career, Taskin chose to take the bulls by the horns, “I never shun away from challenges of any kind,” he shares exuberantly. While his parents wanted him to focus on his studies, his fans were not ready to miss his spectacular cricketing skills. Despite the rising expectations, Taskin is working hard both on and off the field. “I hardly give up on anything,” he says. As a sportsman, this trait is one of his greatest strengths. On the domestic front, he idolises the current captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza immensely. “It’s very difficult for me to stay away from the field,” states Taskin, who also had his share of ailments due to a knee injury that sidelined him for a long spell, à la Mashrafe.
Further into the conversation, we shed light on his indictment on playing the T-20 World Cup with regards to the allegations on illegal bowling. “That moment was heart-breaking,” the bowler goes on to say, “however, I hope to overcome the ban. I have one more assessment this August and hopefully, I can play international cricket again soon.” The amount of flak that ICC’s action got both nationally and internationally was a clear testimony of this young pacer’s popularity. However, the cricketer kept bursting into the domestic scene with his recent win at Dhaka Premier League 2016 for Dhaka Abahani.
His grand recognition and acceptance among the youth has made him a prime catch for endorsements and sponsorships. One of the most remarkable ones is from Raw Nation, a fashion brand that has already been proven to be a hit among fashion forward individuals. According to Taskin, being part of this visionary brand helped him represent his personality in a more stylish way. “It’s a great brand that the youth can easily relate to. The fresh designs and creative presentations are something I personally am proud to endorse.” He expresses his gratitude to the makers of the fashion line for choosing him to be a part of it.
Taskin treasures the affection that he has received from his parents, and is thankful to Almighty for his blessings. He always advises his fans to be loyal towards their family. “Being honest to your near and dear ones will help you pave through any challenge in your life,” he shares. The enthusiastic athlete and ambitious player dreams that five-years down the line, he will emerge as the Captain of Bangladesh team. He wants to build a team with the best formation in all sectors of cricket and eventually win us the world cup.