Richard Stonier, the Bangladesh Under-19 cricket team’s strength and conditioning coach, has played a pivotal role in the team’s success, guiding them to two major trophies – the 2020 ICC U-19 World Cup and the U-19 Asia Cup in 2024. In an exclusive interview with ¶¶Òõ¾«Æ·â€™s Tarif Akhlaq, the Englishman reflected on his journey and vision for the future. Here are the excerpts:
¶¶Òõ¾«Æ·: What are your thoughts and feelings following the Asia Cup victory?
Richard Stonier: I feel great, but success isn’t always about lifting trophies. It’s about the journey, the marginal gains, and the growth of the players, both physically and mentally. I’m incredibly proud of my players, the coaching staff, the management, and the supporters for bringing another trophy to Bangladesh. This win holds special meaning for me as I lost my cousin, Daniel, just 33 years old, to cancer during the tournament. This victory is dedicated to him.Ìý
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NA: How do you sum up this success?Ìý
Stonier: It’s a collective effort. Every member of the team, from the players to the coaching staff and the BCB, plays a vital role. Success is never the result of one person; it’s the outcome of teamwork, dedication, and shared belief.
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NA: How does the 2024 Asia Cup campaign compare to your experience in 2020?Ìý
Stonier: The two experiences were vastly different. In 2020, we faced challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but this time, the conditions were much better. The 2024 team was exceptional, with every player showing immense commitment. On the eve of the final, all 15 players were training with me, and their energy was evident throughout the tournament. The trust and camaraderie I share with these players are phenomenal.Ìý
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NA: What sets the Junior Tigers apart?Ìý
Stonier: These boys have chosen a unique path. Their routines are entirely different from their peers. While their friends are out socialising, my players are sleeping. When others are sleeping, my boys are training and working hard. This discipline is essential for becoming a professional athlete, and they’ve embraced it wholeheartedly.Ìý
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NA: Transitioning from U-19 to the national team can be challenging. What are the main obstacles players face?
Stonier: The transition is tough because the U-19 programme spans just two years, despite significant investment by the BCB. Players often face hurdles like limited infrastructure and training facilities. However, our head coach, Naveed Nawaz, was instrumental in terms of leadership. Sometimes it’s very difficult because there is a lot of cricket available in Bangladesh.
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NA: Have you noticed any changes in BCB’s approach over the years?Ìý
Stonier: Absolutely. Since I joined in 2018, the BCB has made significant progress. The commitment to upgrading infrastructure and modernising facilities is evident. While there’s still room for improvement, the steps taken so far are promising.Ìý
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NA: Which players in the current U-19 squad do you believe have the potential to become future stars?
Stonier: Talent takes time to blossom, and we need to be patient. Many potential stars are emerging from this group, but success requires consistent effort and perseverance.Ìý
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NA: What’s your vision for the 2026 U-19 World Cup?Ìý
Stonier: Our journey has just begun. There will be mistakes and learning curves, but we’re taking it one step at a time. Over the next 90 days, my focus is on turning these boys into machines—more robust and mentally prepared for any challenge. That said, we’re all human, and mistakes are part of growth. As long as we believe and trust the process, we’re gonna be on the right path to success.
