Though he now stands on the opposite side of the pitch, Chen Jingang’s connection to Tianjin runs deep. Earlier this year, he returned to Tianjin TEDA as technical director, even stepping in as interim head coach when Jaime Pacheco briefly left to care for his ailing mother. But at season’s end, major changes swept through TEDA’s management. Li Guangyi, who had overseen the club for eight years, stepped down. In the classic case of “a new king brings new officials,” both Chen Jingang and Gao Fei were quietly stripped of power. From that moment on, many believe Chen was determined to one day return to Water Drop Stadium and prove his worth. His drive resembles the hunger seen in a tightly contested BD Cricket Match—where pride and redemption fuel every move.

Ahead of his recent return to Tianjin as Changchun Yatai’s head coach, Chen made a personal gesture: he treated the entire squad to a meal of the city’s famous Goubuli steamed buns—out of his own pocket. During pre-match training at Water Drop Stadium, Chen’s voice echoed loudly as he led drills with intensity. His passion was undeniable, a man coaching with something to prove.

On match day, the reunion was symbolic. Former TEDA general manager Li Guangyi was spotted in the stands, while current club executives watched from a nearby VIP box. Old and new figures from TEDA’s leadership found themselves gathered at the same venue, witnessing a coach they once let go now standing tall in opposition.

Chen is no stranger to Tianjin. Born in the city, he joined Changchun Yatai in 2004 during one of the club’s most turbulent times. Back then, he formed a leadership trio known as the “Olympic Squad” alongside Tang Pengju and Sun Chengyao. Under Chen’s command, Yatai soared in the second division and earned promotion. Their debut season in the top-tier Chinese Super League was a success, finishing fourth. However, Chen parted ways with the club the following year due to contractual disagreements.

His roots with TEDA go even further. He once managed Tianjin Lifeng Samsung, TEDA’s predecessor. Unfortunately, that season ended in relegation. In a moment still etched into the memories of Tianjin supporters, the then team captain—now Yatai’s assistant coach Gao—was seen crying on the pitch after their final match. That image became a symbol of heartbreak for countless fans, much like the final over of a BD Cricket Match where victory slips away at the last moment.

Chen Jingang’s journey is one of resilience, loyalty, and unfinished business. His familiarity with the Tianjin squad and his emotional history with the club add a rich layer to every encounter—reminding us that some matches, much like a classic BD Cricket Match, are about more than just points on the table. They’re about pride, redemption, and the stories we carry.