Bangladesh Celebrates 25 Years of Test Status with Nationwide Festivities

A festive atmosphere has returned to the heart of Bangladesh cricket as the nation prepares to celebrate the 25th anniversary of earning Test status. On June 26, 2000, Bangladesh became the 10th Test-playing nation recognized by the International Cricket Council (ICC). To mark this silver jubilee, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced a week-long celebration featuring unique programs across the country.

Adding to the symbolic significance of this occasion, the current BCB president is Aminul Islam Bulbul—the very man who scored Bangladesh’s first-ever Test century. This marks the first major celebration under his leadership since assuming the top post, and he views the event as an opportunity to expand cricket’s grassroots reach.

The celebrations begin on June 21 and continue through June 28, with events planned in seven divisional cities.

• June 21 – Khulna

• June 22 – Rajshahi

• June 23 – Sylhet

• June 24 – Chattogram

• June 25 – Riya Ghosh Women’s Sports Complex in Dhaka

• June 28 – Events will also take place in Rangpur and Barisal, although the venues are yet to be confirmed.

• The Mymensingh Division will not be included in this edition of the celebrations.

Unlike traditional tournaments or player-only events, the silver jubilee celebration will welcome children, families, and general spectators, aiming to make cricket more inclusive and accessible.

Highlights of the Celebration Programs:

• Under-12 exhibition matches for budding cricketers.

• A "Free-for-All Coaching Session" for parents, where basic cricket principles and training tips will be shared.

• A "Pacer and Spinner Hunt" campaign targeting school, college, and university students. Participants can join simply by showing their student ID.

• Commentary booths will be set up at each venue, where fans can try their hand at live commentary while watching historic Bangladesh Test match footage.

• A drawing competition titled "Test Moments" will allow young participants to visually express iconic Test cricket memories.

• A fun "Hit the Stump" challenge for fans of all ages.

• Visitors can also write messages on a “Good Luck Wish Board” to express their support and hopes for Bangladesh cricket.

This initiative goes beyond just commemorating a historic day. BCB aims to use the platform to discover new talent, engage young fans, and instill pride in the country’s cricketing legacy. Organizers hope to bridge the past and future of Bangladesh cricket through shared experiences and interactive activities.

As Bangladesh marks this milestone in its cricketing journey, fans can expect not only reflection and nostalgia but also a renewed sense of purpose and passion—blending memories with dreams in a week full of cricket, community, and celebration.