‘I Want to Be a Match-Winner, Bangladesh’s Hospitality Is Fantastic Too’

Ethan Brookes has become a popular face in English county cricket. In the 2025 domestic season, this all-rounder consistently performed for Worcestershire. Mid-summer, he touched one of the best centuries of his career with a stunning 140-run knock. Even towards the end of the season, he kept his form intact, earning praise from teammate Jake Libby as a ‘special talent’.

Now he has arrived to play in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). Already featuring in two matches for Sylhet Strikers, he played a key role in the team’s only victory so far.

‘Sincerity, empathy, and hospitality. The food is also fantastic. And the people are truly wonderful, they made my first week very special.’

Brookes spoke exclusively to The Daily Campus sports reporter Mohammad Roni Kha in Sylhet. In the conversation, he shared insights about his career, studies, journey in cricket, and his dream of shining in the England jersey.

- You have been playing T20 format for almost one and a half years, but your last first-class match was five years ago. How did your cricket journey actually begin?

Ethan Brookes: It all started from the family. From a very young age, I felt love for cricket. I used to spend time in the nets with my father. It began through my father and brothers.

- In England, many people play cricket just for fun. When did you decide to take it up professionally?

Ethan Brookes: It happened naturally. I was offered a contract. I had just turned 18. From then on, I started loving playing cricket.

- Who inspired you to get into cricket?

Ethan Brookes: My father and brothers. Playing cricket in the garden with them made me fall in love with it at a very young age. Later, watching on TV, I created some idols. I really liked Freddie Flintoff. I tried to be like them and prepared myself to represent the country.

- There are many star cricketers in England, many who have ruled world cricket. Which cricketer do you follow?

Ethan Brookes: In my childhood, I followed Andrew Flintoff a lot. As I grew older, Chris Woakes. I was in the same cricket club with him.

- BPL is your first franchise cricket tournament. How does it feel?

Ethan Brookes: It’s a great experience. Different challenges, different conditions, and even facing bowlers I have never seen before. I am learning as much as possible, picking up new things from the coaches. And the fans are amazing, their energy is fantastic.

- Which Bangladeshi cricketer do you like, and why?

Ethan Brookes: Shakib Al Hasan, he is definitely a very big player. He has created a lot of history in England, played in my home county. I have followed him a lot. But Bangladeshi cricket as a whole is outstanding.

- What are the differences between conditions in England and Bangladesh? What challenges are you facing?

Ethan Brookes: A lot of differences. Especially the pitches. In England, there is more bounce and pace. But here, there is a lot more spin and bounce too. I am trying to adapt.

- How are you enjoying the beauty of Sylhet?

Ethan Brookes: Unbelievable, fantastic. Especially the huge crowds. During the last match while batting, the noise was so loud, it felt like the most energetic crowd I have ever played in front of.

- An absolute thriller of a match, Sylhet won by just one wicket. Your contribution was significant. How does it feel to think about it?

Ethan Brookes: Very exciting. I was batting in the last over, and the noise I heard then was something I had never experienced in my life! The fans are brilliant. They added so much energy to the game. The match was tense, but the win was very important, everyone was happy. But I didn’t win the match because I didn’t hit the winning run, I got out. That’s why I was a bit angry. Because I want to be the kind of person who wins matches for the fans and makes them celebrate. I want to do better so that I can win matches for the team and become the hero of many victories.

- Which aspect of Bangladeshi culture has impressed you the most since arriving?

Ethan Brookes: Sincerity, empathy, and hospitality. The food is also fantastic. And the people are truly very good, they made my first week very special.

- What have you eaten so far, and how did you like it?

Ethan Brookes: A few days ago, I had dal and mutton. The mutton was very good, delicious. I am enjoying it.

- How do you spend your free time outside cricket?

Ethan Brookes: I love playing golf. I am also studying, doing a degree in Sports Science. Almost at the end now, only 4 months left. Besides that, I spend time with family, with my girlfriend and pet dog. I drink coffee, have good dinners. I am a simple person.

- Jason Roy, Will Jacks, Jofra Archer started in BPL early in their careers and later got chances in the national team. Gradually, they also gained fame worldwide. What is your plan?

Ethan Brookes: Yes, many have said this could be a path to international cricket. But I don’t think it’s enough. If you are good enough, you will play international cricket. I want to try, want to enjoy the game. If I play well, it will help me in the future.

- Where do you see yourself in the next 2-3 years? Do you dream of playing for England?

Ethan Brookes: As I said, I won’t try to play for England. I have come to Sylhet to play, I want to win matches for Sylhet. I don’t think too much about the future, I enjoy every match. Because on the cricket field, I always keep a smile on my face.