For Bangladesh, cricket has been a sport that has united the whole nation and the cricketers’ achievements have managed to show the country in a positive light in the world arena, but one ailing player is feeling helpless with her dream being shattered.
Chamely Khatun was not only one of the members of the silver-winning Bangladesh side in the women’s cricket segment in the 2010 Asian Games but the former national team player also played athletics and football in the national level.
Unfortunately, the 29-year old cricketer has been suffering from a grave injury that has pushed her off the ground and she pleads from sports lovers to help her recover and return to cricket.
Chamely’s right foot ligament got severely damaged eight years ago while playing a cricket match.
The situation was exacerbated as the soft tissues of her backbone started to weaken.
As a result, the right side of her body is getting paralysed and the doctors asked her to undergo treatment abroad immediately.
However, the treatment will require an estimated Tk10 lakhs and it is difficult for her insolvent family to arrange the sum.
Chamely was recruited in Bangladesh Ansar thanks to her sporting prowess but she is unable to continue the job under her current health condition and she lamented about her situation at her Rajshahi residence.
“I still dream of playing cricket, I want to see my beloved flag hoisted high once again, I want to live, so I want prayers from my countrymen and their help so that I may return to the field once again,” said Chamely at her Rajshahi residence.
It can be questioned why the situation was not better handled by authorities and she not been given proper treatment so that her health did not reach such a poor state.
“I have to look after my family. I continued my job for the sake of my old parents and siblings. I said to myself to remain strong but now I cannot even stand. I will lose my job. My family will be dismantled,” added a tearful Chamely.
The right-handed middle-order batter and a useful off-spinner, Chamely, who last played an international game back in 2011, claimed she informed her situation a month ago to the BCB but is yet to get any response.
When asked whether she has sought any help from local sports organisations or organisers, she replied that despite being poor her family never sought any help in fear of losing their dignity.
But, currently the situation has worsened and the hapless cricketer said she needs support urgently to receive treatment and save her life.
