BPL match disrupted as players call boycott over BCB director’s comments

Cricketers remained steadfast in their stance on Thursday as no teams arrived at the venue hours before the scheduled start of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). 

The boycott was announced in protest against what players described as humiliating remarks made by Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) finance committee chairman M. Najmul Islam.

Najmul Islam faced widespread criticism after accusing Tamim Iqbal of being an “Indian agent” in a Facebook post. 

The comments followed Tamim’s recent interview, in which he urged the BCB to prioritise cricketing interests before making a final decision on Bangladesh’s participation in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

Tamim’s statements came after the BCB decided against traveling to India, citing security concerns, following a request from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders squad for the IPL.

Najmul’s Facebook post quickly drew backlash, with screenshots circulating widely on social media. In the post, he wrote: “This time, the people of Bangladesh witnessed, with their own eyes, the emergence of yet another proven Indian agent.”

Earlier, the Cricketers Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB) declared that players would not participate in the BPL unless Najmul resigned prior to the opening game between Noakhali Express and Chattogram Royals, scheduled for 1:00 PM at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.

At 1:00 PM, CWAB held an impromptu press conference at a city hotel to reaffirm their stance, after a negotiation meeting between BCB officials and players’ representatives ended without resolution. The meeting had taken place hours after CWAB issued its ultimatum.

The BCB confirmed that it has initiated disciplinary proceedings against Najmul.

“The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) reiterates its regret over the recent objectionable comments made by a Board member. We acknowledge the concern caused by the remarks and reaffirm our commitment to professionalism, respect for cricketers, and the values that uphold the game,” the board said in a statement.

The BCB also stressed its commitment to proper procedures and accountability in handling internal disputes.

“As a constitutional body, the BCB is duty-bound to address such matters according to established rules and professional guidelines. Formal disciplinary proceedings have been initiated, a show-cause letter issued, and the individual instructed to submit a written response within 48 hours. Appropriate action will be taken based on the outcome of these proceedings,” the statement added.

Highlighting the importance of the tournament for Bangladeshi cricket and its fans, the BCB emphasised the role of players in ensuring the success of the league.

“The Bangladesh Premier League T20 2026 is in its final phase and remains the country’s most popular and globally recognised domestic franchise competition. The Board firmly believes that players are the main stakeholders and the lifeblood of all cricketing activities under the BCB,” the statement said.

Sources indicated that Thursday’s opening match could be delayed by a few hours, depending on the outcome of the CWAB press conference.