In an unexpected move, former Bangladesh captain Khaled Mahmud Sujon has resigned from his role as a director of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). The resignation comes at a crucial juncture as Bangladesh is gearing up for a two-match Test series against India, starting on 19 September in Chennai.
The exact reasons behind Mahmud’s resignation remain undisclosed, but his departure adds to the growing concerns surrounding Bangladesh cricket.
Recent success overshadowed by Turmoil
Bangladesh recently made history by securing their first-ever Test series win against Pakistan on foreign soil. While the victory in Rawalpindi was a major milestone, it now seems like a distant memory.
The upcoming series against India, the second-ranked Test team in the world, will be a massive challenge. India has not lost a Test series at home since 2012, and Bangladesh must focus on this formidable task amidst growing internal disruptions.
Khaled Mahmud resignations raise concerns
Khaled Mahmud’s resignation follows a series of high-profile departures from the BCB. Earlier this month, former Bangladesh captain Naimur Rahman also resigned from his role as BCB director. The resignations are part of a larger shake-up in Bangladeshi cricket administration following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government on 5 August.
Nazmul Hasan Papon, who had served as the BCB president for an extended period, stepped down along with Shafiul Alam Chowdhury, the head of BCB’s women’s wing. However, both individuals remained as directors of the board.
Changes at Top: Bangladesh Cricket Board
Jalal Younus, another prominent figure within the BCB, resigned last month after a request from the National Sports Council (NSC). Additionally, veteran sports organiser Ahmed Sajjadul Alam Bobby, who initially resisted pressure to step down, was eventually removed by the NSC.
In the wake of these resignations, Faruk Ahmed and Nazmul Abedeen Fahim were appointed as BCB directors. On 21 August, Faruk Ahmed emerged as the new BCB president, succeeding Nazmul Hasan Papon.
Focus shifts to India vs Bangladesh Test series
With internal leadership in flux, the Bangladesh team must put their focus back on the field as they prepare for one of their most challenging Test series in recent memory. The disruptions at the administrative level may serve as a distraction, but Bangladesh will need to rise above these challenges if they hope to perform against a dominant Indian side.