The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has been in the spotlight for several days. On Thursday, the BCB was pushed to make a significant decision when senior players of the national team launched a campaign against Finance Committee Chairman Najmul Islam. Under public and player pressure, BCB swiftly removed Islam from his position.
However, despite the pressure and the subsequent action of ousting Najmul from the Finance Committee chair, it remains unclear whether he will continue as a director of BCB. This duality in handling raises questions, as many believe the removal should have been absolute.
Read More: Bangladesh Cricket Board in Action Mode, Removes 'Controversial' Najmul Islam, BCB President Takes Charge
The conflict around Najmul erupted when he refused Bangladesh's visit to the upcoming T20 World Cup in India due to security concerns, alongside his controversial statement on player salaries. He stated that players will not be compensated as they have not yet won any ICC tournaments, sparking outrage in cricket circles.
During Thursday's Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) match in Dhaka, the Naokhali Express and Chattogram Royals refused to take the field, delaying the toss, showcasing solidarity in demanding Najmul's removal.
Subsequently, in response to player pressure, BCB issued an official statement declaring that, following recent reviews and in the organization’s best interest, BCB's chairman decided to relieve Najmul Islam from his duties as Finance Committee chair with immediate effect.
BCB clarified that until further notice, the board chairman will act as interim Finance Committee chair, ensuring players’ interests remain a priority.
Read More: Suspensions, Scandals, and Boycotts... 10 Dramas in 10 Days by Bangladesh, the Full World Cup Controversy Story
Earlier, BCB had also served Najmul a show-cause notice. The board expressed that formal disciplinary procedures have begun over his objectionable remarks, directing the involved member to provide a written response within 48 hours.
Bangladesh Players Furious Over Najmul's Statements
Najmul Islam's statements were met with fierce reactions from the Cricket Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB), demanding his immediate dismissal. CWAB president Mohammad Mithun stated they asked for Najmul’s apology, yet he grew more defiant. Such statements are unacceptable.
Bangaldesh's Test captain Najmul Hossain Shanto commented that the players are under mental stress due to the current situation. Despite multiple discussions with BCB on these issues, resolutions remain elusive, leaving players highly stressed.
Senior all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz stated, “The cricket board should be our guardian, yet hearing such comments is very disappointing.” T20 captain Liton Das also raised concerns about players’ salaries and female cricketer protection. He said, “Be it men or women, all players should be paid better. BCB has sufficient resources._”
When Najmul Called Tamim Iqbal an Agent of India
The controversy escalated when Najmul referred to former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal as 'an agent of India.' This statement drew severe condemnation from CWAB. Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Cricket Board continues discussions with ICC, as ICC rejected the proposal to shift four matches to Sri Lanka from India. The Bangladesh tour to India remains uncertain amidst security concerns.
