BCB Removes Director M Nazmul Islam Amid Player Revolt and BPL Disruption
- By Thetripurapost Sports Desk, Dhaka
- Jan 15, 2026
- 612
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has removed director M. Nazmul Islam from its board following intense pressure from players and escalating protests that threatened to derail the country’s domestic cricket calendar. The decision came after the Cricketers Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB) issued a firm ultimatum, warning of a complete boycott of all cricketing activities unless Nazmul Islam resigned by Thursday afternoon.
The controversy erupted after Nazmul Islam made a highly inflammatory remark, publicly branding former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal an “Indian agent.” CWAB strongly condemned the statement, calling it deeply disrespectful and harmful to the dignity of players, and accused the director of undermining the unity and integrity of Bangladesh cricket.
Despite multiple rounds of discussions between CWAB representatives and BCB officials, the impasse remained unresolved. Subsequently, CWAB convened a press conference at a city hotel, reiterating its position and reaffirming its decision to withdraw players from the field if decisive action was not taken.
True to their warning, players refused to take the field until just hours before the scheduled start of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) opener between Noakhali Express and Chattogram Royals. As a result, the curtain-raiser of the country’s flagship T20 tournament failed to commence on time, highlighting the severity of the standoff.
In an official statement, the BCB confirmed that disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against Nazmul Islam. A show-cause notice has been issued, granting him 48 hours to submit a formal response. The board said further action would be determined in accordance with its disciplinary framework after reviewing his explanation.
The BCB also emphasised that the BPL remains the most significant domestic T20 competition in Bangladesh and acknowledged players as its primary stakeholders. Expressing hope for a swift resolution, the board said it is committed to ensuring the smooth continuation of the tournament.
In a separate statement, the BCB expressed regret over Nazmul Islam’s controversial comments, clarifying that his remarks do not reflect the board’s official stance. The board reiterated that any conduct which demeans players or damages the reputation of Bangladesh cricket would invite strict disciplinary action.
The remarks in question were reportedly made after Tamim Iqbal advocated dialogue to ease growing tensions between Indian and Bangladeshi cricketing bodies, following the release of Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Nazmul Islam allegedly mocked Tamim, accusing him of acting in India’s interest.
The broader controversy stems from Mustafizur Rahman’s acquisition by KKR for ₹9.20 crore during the IPL mini-auction on December 16. The signing sparked protests in India amid outrage over reported killings of Hindus in Bangladesh. Subsequently, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) denied Mustafizur permission to participate in the IPL, prompting KKR to release the pacer on January 3.
Amid these developments, uncertainty continues to loom over Bangladesh’s scheduled tour of India for T20 World Cup fixtures. The BCB has formally requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to relocate the matches, citing concerns over player safety. However, the ICC has rejected the proposal, insisting that the fixtures remain in India.
The episode has exposed deep fault lines within Bangladesh cricket administration, raising concerns over governance, player relations, and the growing intersection of sport and geopolitics in the region.