‘Challenging but semi berth would be fantastic’

Rajani Kanta Barman is a bright star in the country's footballing sky, having captained Bangladesh in their maiden SAFF Championship title in 2003 – the only one till date. Rajani was also part of the Bangladesh team that bagged gold in 1999 South Asian Games. The ever-reliable defender called time as a professional footballer in 2016 and was involved in a brief coaching stint afterwards. In an exclusive interview with Sabbir Hossain of The Daily Star, Rajani looked back on the successful 2003 campaign, gave his views on the current state of the national team, and what the upcoming SAFF Championship might have in store for Bangladesh. The excerpts are as follows:  

The Daily Star (DS): Looking back now, how do you recall the memory of the 2003 SAFF triumph?

Rajani Kanta Barman (RKB): Memories of 2003, I believe, float in the eyes of every Bangladeshi -- not just me. The football enthusiasts who had travelled to the stadium to witness that final were thrilled by the result.

DS: Being the hosts, were Bangladesh the favourites in that event?

RKB: Not favourites, we began the tournament as underdogs but we were under immense pressure as we were the hosts. However, as our team had all senior players at the time, we could withstand the pressure and our performance corresponded to the number of spectators. The fans, who were also seen to gather in tens of thousands outside the stadium, played an important role.

DS: How pivotal was coach George Kottan's impact at the time?

RKB: A coach is a team's guardian and we used to think of him as one. He used to look after us like how parents look after their children, and we thoroughly followed his instructions. In our group, he allowed a loving bond to flourish.

DS: What distinguished that winning squad from others?

RKB: Coach Kottan made entertainment arrangements for us to prevent pressure from rising. We had this routine where we would visit Ramna Park early on matchdays. In addition, we were closely bonded, there was mutual respect and admiration between players, and all that reflected onto the field. Everyone was mentally prepared to step up and act when required. You don't become champions merely by training.

DS: Since 2003, eight more SAFF editions were held but we could not taste ultimate glory. How do you view the fact that we have failed to go past the group stage in last five outings?

RKB: There was a time when we didn't even consider Bhutan, whereas we were only thinking about how many goals we were going to score against them. But we now lose to Bhutan as well -- what could be more heartbreaking than this?

In India, there are high-quality football leagues. So, I will not discuss them. The unfortunate reality is that all countries are progressing. However, we are moving backwards. There is no point in blaming the players now.

Those in positions of authority, however ... you (media) are watching everything and these are being written about, anyway.

DS: Why are we repeatedly failing? Do we lack quality?

RKB: We don't lack anything. We possess the skills and qualities but the players need to be properly nurtured. In our era, there was no regular league. The league from one year was carried over to the next. However, we players made the most of it. Now since leagues are held annually, our football players also receive large sums of money. However, where other countries are systematically advancing, we are lagging behind.

DS: From June 21, another SAFF Championship will take place. What chance do you think Bangladesh have in the competition?

RKB: Bhutan, Lebanon, and Maldives are part of Bangladesh's group. We have a 50-50 chance of beating Bhutan since they are a fighting team now. Lebanon is well ahead, so discussing them is pointless. Maldives have also made great strides. So, it would be a fantastic result for us if we could reach the semifinals, but it will be really challenging. Having said that, my heart wants Bangladesh to compete in the final.