The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has selected Tamim Iqbal, a former captain, as the new president after dissolving the previous board led by Aminul Islam. Tamim, aged 37, is now the youngest president in BCB’s history and will lead an 11-member ad-hoc committee.
Joining Tamim on the committee are former Bangladesh captain Minhajul Abedin, ex-cricketer and TV commentator Athar Ali Khan, and others including Rashna Imam, Mirza Yeasir Abbas, Syed Ibrahim Ahmed, Israfil Khasru, Tanjil Chowdhury, Salman Ispahani, Rafiqul Islam, and Fahim Sinha. His appointment follows recommendations from a five-member investigation committee that probed allegations from the previous BCB elections.
The investigation committee disclosed irregularities during a press briefing at the sports ministry, confirming that the previous board was not properly constituted and could not function effectively. Aminul Ehsan, the sports director at the National Sports Council (NSC), stated that the board’s formation was flawed, leading to its dissolution.
Despite the controversy, Aminul Islam expressed his intention to stay as the BCB chief. This decision came after the probe committee’s report highlighted misconduct and misuse of authority during the past board elections.
The BCB has been under scrutiny by the sports ministry due to concerns about the legitimacy of previous elections, Bangladesh’s exclusion from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, and allegations of political interference and favoritism within the board.
In response to the ongoing turmoil, four directors resigned last week, bringing the total number of resignations to six since January. These resignations indicate continued instability within the board’s governance.
Tamim, known for his contributions in 70 Tests, 243 ODIs, and 78 T20Is for Bangladesh, is poised to bring about a new chapter in Bangladesh cricket.