In a sweeping change at the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), eleven directors, including former BCB president Nazmul Hassan, have been removed for missing three consecutive board meetings as per the BCB constitution. This move also saw the resignation of three additional directors, resulting in a restructured board now working toward new governance initiatives, including potential amendments to the BCB constitution.
Reasons behind Bangladesh Cricket Board shake-up
The BCB made the decision to vacate eleven director positions after these members failed to attend three or more meetings in succession. The list of removed directors includes key figures like Sheikh Sohel, BPL chairman; Manzur Kader; AJM Nasir Uddin; Anwarul Islam; Shafiul Alam Chowdhury; Ismail Haider Mallick; Tanvir Ahmed; Obeid Nizam; Gazi Golam Murtoza; and Nazib Ahmed. Notably, many of these figures were linked to the former Awami League government, which was removed from power on August 5 following a period of political turmoil.
In addition to the vacated positions, three directors—Naimur Rahman, Khaled Mahmud, and Enayet Hossain Siraj—also tendered their resignations. Before this change, the BCB board consisted of 25 members, of which only 10 remain following these exits and one prior vacancy due to a board member’s passing.
Constitutional Amendment Committee formed for reforms
The BCB has since announced the formation of a Constitution Amendment Committee to ensure its operations stay relevant and effective. The committee, led by board director Nazmul Abedeen, is tasked with evaluating and proposing updates to the current BCB constitution.
According to the BCB’s October 30 press release, “The committee will be responsible for assessing the current BCB constitution, identifying areas of improvement and proposing amendments that align with the strategic goals and evolving needs of the BCB.”
NSC role and expectations for Good Governance
The National Sports Council (NSC) has also stepped in, calling for clarity on the BCB’s structure and urging the board to work toward governance that promotes transparency and accountability. In a letter to the BCB, the NSC stated, “An acceptable (to all) and inclusive constitution plays a vital role to bring good governance in the sports arena, which has been seen over time. Besides, a constitution is a sacred deposit to the respective organizations.”
The NSC has expressed its support for the BCB’s constitutional review and has encouraged the board to include NSC members in the amendment committee for broader oversight.
NSC has requested that the BCB clarify which board members have vacated their posts due to absence, as well as provide information on any future plans for filling these positions.
Leadership Changes and New Appointments
Following the formation of an interim government in August, the BCB elected former Bangladesh cricket captain Faruque Ahmed as the new president, and prominent coach Nazmul Abedeen joined the board as a director. These appointments replaced Jalal Yunus, who resigned as a director, and Ahmed Sajjadul Alam, who was removed from the board.
Preparation for upcoming BPL Season
In a separate announcement, the BCB confirmed that the 11th edition of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) is scheduled to begin on December 30, 2024, with the final match set for February 7, 2025. This season’s BPL is anticipated to bring renewed excitement to Bangladesh’s cricket landscape, as the newly reformed board aims to implement its upcoming governance reforms effectively.
Conclusion: New Era for BCB?
With the removal of key directors and a forthcoming constitutional amendment, the BCB faces a pivotal period of transition. This move is anticipated to drive greater governance and accountability within the board, paving the way for a more inclusive future in Bangladesh cricket.
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