Quazem Shah Kirmanee, the Canadian-raised midfielder who chose to represent Bangladesh, sat down with Times of Bangladesh to discuss his unusual journey, the physical demands of the game, and his vision for the future of football in the nation.
The gifted midfielder, who was born in Bangladesh but raised in Canada, admitted the decision to represent the Red & Green was a serious one, taken at a crucial stage of his development.
When did you first start thinking about playing for Bangladesh, and can you share a bit about your earliest steps in the game?
I used to play a little cricket when I was living in Bangladesh, but after we moved to Canada, I saw the kids there playing football. So, I started playing with them. My father bought me a ball around the 2006 World Cup, and I started playing regularly then. It was probably around the age of nineteen that I thought I could take it up as a profession. That was the dream, to represent the Bangladesh National Team. But I knew I had to become a professional footballer first before I could play for the national team.
You started out as a striker but evolved into a midfielder. What prompted that change, and what do you enjoy about your current role?
I started out as a striker. Then I slowly worked on developing myself as a midfielder. I really enjoy playing in this position because it’s more creative. I can play Box-to-Box, or as an attacking midfielder; I can play across the midfield.
What difficulties have you faced adjusting to the playing conditions and environment here in Bangladesh?
When I first arrived, it was definitely the heat, a lot of heat. I was not used to it at all. You sweat so much here; it’s not easy. But slowly, you build your fitness. You understand what your body needs before practice and before games, like needing more water and more electrolytes. Over time, my muscles adjusted. Also, my father played cricket at the highest level here, but I didn’t feel pressure from that; I was moving forward with my own plan to perform in the league and then get the national team jersey.
You mentioned the dream of playing for Bangladesh. Was there a moment when you felt that opportunity was slipping away, and how did you handle being left out of the national squad sometimes?
As a player, of course, there is a degree of frustration if you are not getting to play. But I convince myself that if I am patient, something good will happen. I have a good trait where I can motivate myself during these times. I motivate myself every day and keep working on my skills so I can start each day better and prove myself more effectively on the field.
You have been described as quiet and reserved. How do you find that balance between being naturally quiet and needing to express yourself as a leader on the pitch?
I have been quiet and calm since I was a child. Even my school teachers used to say I don’t talk much. But now I try to express myself more and talk with everyone.
You are currently playing for Dhaka Abahani, and the competition in the national team midfield is fierce. How do you view the challenge of competing with players like Hamza and Shamit?
I wouldn’t say it’s hard; I would say it’s a privilege, honestly. This is the best midfield in South Asia. We have to take it as something good. If you want to become a good team, you have to have competition in every position. We have many good players in the midfield now, both local and foreign-raised. I enjoy this challenge very much. I feel it gives me the motivation to improve my own game.
You have been playing here for four seasons now. What were your initial feelings about the state of football in Bangladesh, and what’s changed since then?
When I first came, there wasn’t as much ‘craze’ for the country’s own football. People had more enthusiasm for other countries’ football or foreign club football, which was a little disappointing to see at the time. But I didn’t give up hope. Things have changed day by day. Now, the demand for the country’s football has increased. People are coming to the stadium to watch us play, and they are keeping up with our news. I like that a lot now.
You have spoken about the need for better facilities. As someone who plays in the domestic league for most of the year, what is the biggest thing holding back the standard of the League?
The main lacking thing is the pitches. When the pitches aren’t good, it is difficult for players to play good football. When we go to the national team, we get good pitches, but for the eight months of the year we play club football, the surfaces are often poor. That is the main thing. Also, the broadcasting quality. If these two things are improved, spectators will be more interested, the craze will increase, and the local players’ standards will also improve and they will get more focus.
Finally, on a personal note, you haven’t received huge amounts of playing time for the national team yet. What do you believe you can offer the squad with more opportunities?
So far in the national team, I haven’t received much time. I try to give my best in the time I get. But if I get more playing time, I will try to show more. I am skilled in my ball controlling ability and through-passes, among other things. If I get more chances, I will demonstrate these on the field. The rest, time will tell.
