A meeting between representatives of the BCB and Bangladesh’s interim government’s youth and sports adviser, Asif Mahmud, is expected to take place on Sunday to discuss the forthcoming women’s T20 World Cup in October. Meanwhile, the focus in Dhaka’s cricketing circles is on the potential retention of main officials within the BCB and the possibility of reforms under the new government.
There is speculation in Dhaka that, similar to 2007, the interim government might establish an ad-hoc committee to oversee the BCB. The ICC is likely to approve such a committee as long as there is no direct government interference, with the condition that elections may be held later. However, the ICC may intervene if there are concerns of government interference. The ICC’s recent suspension of Sri Lanka Cricket due to government interference serves as a warning.
Should a new board be established, the ICC will require the BCB to appoint a representative to attend all ICC meetings. Currently, the BCB headquarters in Mirpur is functioning with its employees in charge, while board directors, including president Nazmul Hassan, have been absent since the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The presence of certain directors with affiliations to the Awami League has raised concerns about the BCB’s functioning.
The BCB’s ability to operate without its board of directors is in question, particularly with the looming ICC event. Concerns have been raised regarding potential government directives for BCB changes and the impact on upcoming events, such as the World Cup.
Notably, senior coach Nazmul Abedeen Fahim has criticized the BCB directors for neglecting the country’s cricket at a crucial time. Fahim, along with former national players Mohammad Ashraful and Imrul Kayes, advocates for reform within the BCB to align with the new government’s agenda. The need for transparency, accountability, and disciplined governance within the BCB is emphasized for addressing ongoing challenges in Bangladesh cricket.
