Bangladesh captain Liton Kumar Das announced that the team was dedicating their first-ever series win against Pakistan to the victims of the tragic jet crash at Milestone School and College.
The match began under a heavy cloud of grief following the heartbreaking incident that left many dead and injured after an Air Force jet crashed into Milestone School and College. Bangladesh took control early in the game, battled through a tense finish, and eventually sealed both the win and the series trophy. Liton made it clear — this long-awaited triumph was dedicated to the victims of the Milestone tragedy.
Soon after Monday’s devastating incident, Bangladesh’s cricketers expressed their condolences and solidarity on social media. Even during Tuesday’s evening match, traces of sorrow lingered in their expressions. Though professional duty brought them to the field, their hearts carried the weight of grief.
Zakir Ali, Shariful Islam, and others turned that grief into strength on the field. Defending a modest total of 133, Bangladesh edged out Pakistan by 8 runs to secure their maiden T20I series win against them.
At the post-match presentation, after answering the usual cricket questions, Liton asked the host for a moment to deliver a heartfelt message. The Bangladesh captain dedicated the series win to those affected by the Milestone tragedy.
“We know what happened yesterday was heartbreaking for the entire nation. This series win is completely for them. We also know that nothing can fill the void for those who lost their loved ones. But at least, from our side, we want to dedicate this series victory to them.”
The BCB also marked the day of national mourning with several gestures before and during the match — special prayers for the victims, a minute of silence before the game, and players and officials wearing black armbands.
In addition, unlike regular match days, no music was played throughout the entire game.
After the match, BCB President Aminul Islam Bulbul shared his emotions with the media, expressing the board’s deep sorrow for the children affected by the Milestone crash.
“We did everything according to protocol, but at the end of the day, our hearts ache for those children. I’m a father myself, and I can’t even express in front of the camera what we’re going through inside. May Allah grant the children paradise and give strength to their families to bear this loss.”
