photo: Messenger
The ‘Bangladesh-Bahrain Friendship Cricket Cup 2024' was held on Friday, 27 December 2024 at the Alba Club field in a lively and joyous atmosphere, which attracted a good number of foreign dignitaries as well as hundreds of cricket enthusiasts from around the Kingdom, who were all present to spectate and show their support of this special friendly cricket match between Bangladesh and Bahrain.
It was jointly organised by the Embassy of Bangladesh in Bahrain and the Bahrain Cricket Federation in commemoration of the year 2024 as it marks the Golden Jubilee of diplomatic ties between Bangladesh and Bahrain and the Silver Jubilee of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s ascension to the throne. Moreover, it was also organised in celebration of the dual significance of the 16th of December to both nations as it is the National Day of Bahrain as well as the Victory Day of Bangladesh.
The match was graced by H.E. Ms. Muneera Nofal Al Doseri, Chief of Asian & Pacific Affairs Sector of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Bahrain, who thanked the Embassy and the Federation for such a wonderful arrangement that reflects the long and enduring friendship between Bangladesh and Bahrain while also setting a positive tone for continued cooperation in the years to come.
Mentionable that a member of the Council of Representatives, H.E. Mr. Mohamed Husain Janahi, was also delighted to attend. He said that it was a fantastic opportunity for people of different nationalities to come together and enjoy a shared love of sport. He also praised the Embassy for its series of events and activities, which have been ongoing since June 2024 in celebration of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and Bahrain. Several Ambassadors, Deputy Chiefs of Diplomatic Missions and other officers of the diplomatic corps, representatives from ministries as well as other Bahrain Government entities, and prominent businesspersons were also present to watch the match.
The Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Embassy, Mr. A.K.M. Mohiuddin Kayes, congratulated both teams for a very close game and stated that today's match was a fantastic display of sportsmanship and camaraderie. He said that it was a unique celebration of the 50 years of diplomacy and friendship between the two nations.
Chairman of the Advisory Board of Bahrain Cricket Federation, Mr. Mohammad Mansoor, also expressed his appreciation to both teams and stated that this collaboration has been a resounding success in celebrating the strong ties between Bangladesh and Bahrain. The President of the Bahrain Cricket Federation, Mr. Sami Ali, also commented that it was his pleasure to witness the competitive but friendly spirits of both teams, which further demonstrates how cricket has a unique ability to unite people across borders.
The match itself was an exciting contest with both teams showcasing exceptional skill and determination. It was a very close game, but ultimately, the Bahrain team managed to win the champion’s cup. The event provided an excellent platform for cultural exchange and friendship between the two nations.
The Embassy of Bangladesh in Bahrain and the Bahrain Cricket Federation extend their heartfelt congratulations to both teams and express their sincere gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the Friendship Cricket Cup, including the players, coaches, umpires, officials, spectators, and sponsors. We look forward to many more such events in the future to further strengthen the bonds between Bangladesh and Bahrain.
Messenger/Tushar
