Bangladesh have made waves in their first-ever Junior Hockey World Cup, exceeding expectations with a strong performance that saw them finish 17th out of 24 teams and claim the Challenger Trophy. A standout performer in this historic campaign was Amirul Islam, who scored 18 goals in six matches, including five hat-tricks, and earned player of the match honours in four games. His remarkable display has also sparked dreams of representing Bangladesh at the senior World Cup level.
In an exclusive interview with ‘Daily Times of Bangladesh’, Amirul talks about the team’s journey in India, his personal achievements, the challenges against stronger and European sides and the importance of media coverage for the growth of the sport in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh are returning from their first-ever World Cup appearance with a commendable achievement. Finishing 17th out of 24 teams, they also won the Challenger Trophy. How does that feel?
First of all, considering it was our first time under such a big spotlight, everyone performed really well, Alhamdulillah. Our initial goal was to reach the round of 16, which we missed, but we then focused on the next biggest prize, the Challenger Trophy, finishing 17th. We are happy to have achieved that.
Bangladesh played well in almost every match, giving a proper fight to comparatively stronger opponents. Any regrets about matches where you felt you could have done better?
In almost every match, we managed to find momentum. We lost three matches by very narrow margins, which I think was down to the difference in experience between us and our opponents. We also didn’t play any warm-up matches prior to the tournament, so we weren’t used to that standard of hockey.
You were the highest goal scorer of the tournament with 18 goals and five hat-tricks. Did you set any personal goals ahead of the World Cup?
I always tried to score for the team. The most important thing was the support and trust I received from my teammates, and I tried to live up to that. The coaching staff was also very helpful. I didn’t set specific personal goals — I just focused on performing to the best of my ability and meeting expectations. Playing at the highest level gave me the opportunity to showcase my skills.
After losing to former world champions Australia in the opening match, what was the team’s mood?
Our confidence was actually very high. This batch of players has been together for almost five years, and our goal was to play the World Cup with pride. Against Australia, we saw that we could challenge the toughest teams and put them under pressure. That experience boosted our confidence rather than demoralised us and laid the foundation for the rest of the tournament.
Many young athletes in Bangladesh focus on cricket or football. How did you start playing hockey and decide to pursue it professionally?
I was inspired by my uncle, who was a professional hockey player in the premier division. In 2015, he gave me a chance to play in an inter-school tournament, and the support from him and my family encouraged me to trial for BKSP in 2016. Coaches at BKSP, especially Raju Sir (Zahid Hossain Raju) and Nannu Sir (Sheikh Md. Nannu), trained and nurtured me to where I am today.
You played against several European sides. Where did the main differences lie?
European teams have flawless planning and execute it precisely. We made small mistakes, such as poor second-pole coverage or dropping the top mark, which proved costly. That was the key difference.
Hockey was once more popular than cricket in Bangladesh. How can the sport regain that status?
There should be constant games, especially in the premier division and domestic leagues. International tournaments or series should also be more regular, particularly against stronger teams. Cricket and football maintain public interest because they have a consistent structure. If hockey followed the same approach, it could return to its glory days.
Thoughts on franchise leagues in hockey?
They have great potential. Young players can learn from experienced foreign players, which strengthens the development pipeline for any country.
Who are your idols in hockey?
In Bangladesh, I follow Ashraful Islam and always listen to Sheikh Md. Nannu Sir of BKSP. Internationally, Harmanpreet Singh from India is one of my favourite players.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
My main focus is playing in the senior World Cup. I’ll continue to progress and achieve that goal as soon as possible.
Bangladesh recently lost to Pakistan in the senior World Cup qualifiers. Where did the team fall short?
Senior teams abroad play consistently throughout the year under dedicated coaching staff. Our senior teams only play 3–4 tournaments over 3–4 years. With so few matches and limited domestic competition, it’s unrealistic to expect them to qualify. We need more constant games to improve results.
You have the nickname ‘Hamza of Hockey’ among fans due to your hairstyle. How do you feel about that?
I feel proud. Being compared to a top football player representing his country is a privilege.
Media coverage of hockey in Bangladesh is limited. How does this affect the sport?
Media coverage depends on having material to report. If there aren’t regular matches or tournaments, there’s little to cover. Recently, coverage improved because of two months of constant games. Regular exposure like this is essential for the sport’s growth and public interest.
