DHAKA: Bangladesh’s cricketers have threatened to boycott all forms of cricket after Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) director M Nazmul Islam made controversial remarks against former national captain Tamim Iqbal, calling him an “Indian agent”.
The warning was issued by Cricketers’ Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB) president Mohammad Mithun, who said players would not take the field unless Nazmul steps down. The threat came just hours before two Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) matches scheduled for January 15, raising concerns about possible disruption to the tournament.
Mithun said the remarks were unacceptable and had hurt the dignity, professionalism and self-respect of the players. He stressed that such statements from a board official damage trust between cricketers and the administration.
Following the backlash, the Bangladesh Cricket Board distanced itself from Nazmul Islam’s comments and expressed regret in an official statement. The board said the remarks did not reflect its values or official position.“The Board expresses sincere regret for comments that may be considered inappropriate, offensive or hurtful,” the statement said, adding that such views do not align with the standards expected from individuals serving Bangladesh cricket.
The BCB clarified that any statements made by directors or board members outside authorised channels are personal in nature and should not be seen as representing the board. It also warned that disciplinary action would be taken against any individual whose conduct disrespects players or harms the integrity of the game.
Reaffirming its position, the board said it fully supports all current and former cricketers, emphasising that players remain at the heart of Bangladesh cricket.
Nazmul Islam came under heavy criticism after making the remarks in a Facebook post. In response, CWAB strongly condemned the comments, calling them “utterly unacceptable” and insulting to the entire cricketing community.
In its statement, CWAB highlighted Tamim Iqbal’s contributions, noting that he is the most successful opener in Bangladesh’s history and represented the country for 16 years. The association said it had submitted a protest letter to the BCB president, demanding accountability and a public apology.
Later, Nazmul Islam issued a clarification on Facebook, saying his comments reflected his personal opinion. He wrote that a legendary cricketer who has scored more than 15,000 international runs for Bangladesh was “batting in favour of India”, adding that the remark should not be taken in any other context.
