Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Thursday hailed the national cricket squad’s success against Pakistan as "historic" and expressed the nation's pride in their achievement.
Welcoming the team to his office, Professor Yunus, said, "I spoke to the captain after the victory, but I was eagerly waiting to meet you all in person and congratulate you on behalf of the nation."
The chief adviser hosted a reception for the Bangladesh cricket team at his office in Tejgaon, Dhaka, celebrating their 2-0 Test series victory against Pakistan in August-September 2024.
Yunus emphasised the unifying power of sports, recalling his recent involvement in the Paris Olympics, where he served as an advisor and ambassador.
He also revealed that he has been invited to play a similar role in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, Italy.
National team captain Najmul Hossain Shanto thanked Professor Yunus for the reception, saying that his words would motivate the team to strive for more success.
"Every player is happy to be here. This will truly inspire us," he remarked, adding that the team's hard work, along with the efforts of the coaching staff, played a key role in their victory over Pakistan.
Adviser to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain, commended the team for achieving success during a challenging period.
The event was also attended by Bangladesh Cricket Board President Faruque Ahmed, director Najmul Abedin Fahim, and CEO Nizam Uddin Chowdhury, among others.