SET THE FIELD ABLAZE

No other form of entertainment resonates the sound of our soul quite like the game of cricket. No other occasion unifies the entire nation of Bangladesh quite like when the national cricket team steps on the pitch. A similar frenzy is observed during other major international cricket tournaments too. People across the country are seen glued to their screens at the very first opportunity. The popularity and genuine love for the game in this region of the world is, in one simple word, unprecedented.

The excitement regarding the game is most visible among youngsters, especially in universities, where students have a keen understanding of the game and an undying spirit of a rebel. Students flock in front of TV screens the moment they can, often bunking classes, especially when a major game of cricket is played. Even faculties cut them some slack in these cases, because probably they realise that the childish spirit in them would do the same.

Away from the screen, open spaces and fields in every neighbourhood are often seen to be occupied by enthusiastic youngsters playing the game. Who knows, probably a sleeping Sachin or Shakib within every youngster tempts him to express himself wherever he can with the bat or the ball. However, a concerning lack of open space in most urban areas of the country is acting as a growing hindrance towards these youngsters enjoying the game by playing it themselves.

As if to celebrate the undying love for the game in young Bangladeshi bloods, University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) will be organising the 9th instalment of the ULAB Fair Play Cup. With the participation of 12 leading private universities of the nation, the cricket tournament is provided with technical support from Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Winners of the tournament are rewarded with an opportunity to participate in the Red Bull Campus World Final Tournament, the prestigious international college cricket tournament.

This year, the tournament will kick start on the 24th of this month, and will end on February 9. The entire tournament will be played in a T20 format. BRAC University, Independent University Bangladesh (IUB), North South University (NSU), East West University (EWU), Eastern University (EU), Southeast University (SEU), United International University (UIU), State University of Bangladesh, Green University of Bangladesh, Daffodil International University (DIU), European University of Bangladesh, and University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) will be participating in this year's edition of the tournament. Last year, European University Bangladesh took home the winner's prize, and will be starting this year's tournament as the retaining champions.