Bangladesh Cricketers End Boycott After Senior Official Is Removed
Bangladesh’s leading cricketers have agreed to return to the field after a tense dispute with the country’s cricket authorities ended in the removal of a senior board official.
The Cricketers' Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB) confirmed that players have called off their strike following the dismissal of Najmul Islam from his role as Chairman of the Finance Committee at the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
What Caused the Dispute?
The row began earlier this week after Najmul Islam made a series of public remarks that angered players and were widely seen as disrespectful.
His comments included:
Calling Tamim Iqbal an “Indian agent” after the former captain suggested a calmer approach to a disagreement over the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Threatening players’ pay, claiming the board owed them nothing if they skipped the World Cup.
Mocking comments about money, where he joked that players should repay funds spent on them because Bangladesh has not won a major global title.
CWAB described his language as “shameful” and “deeply insulting” to the entire cricket community.
How the Players Responded
In protest, players announced a complete boycott of all cricket activities. The move was led by CWAB President Mohammad Mithun and backed by senior players including Mustafizur Rahman and Mehidy Hasan Miraz.
The boycott brought the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) to a halt. Matches scheduled for Thursday, 15 January, were postponed as players refused to take the field, leaving fans and organisers frustrated.
How the Issue Was Resolved
With cricket at a standstill, the BCB acted quickly:
Najmul Islam was removed from his finance role with immediate effect.
A public apology was issued by Najmul for his comments.
BCB President Aminul Islam has temporarily taken charge of financial matters to ensure the league continues smoothly.
What Happens Now?
With their main demand met, players have agreed to resume playing.
BPL matches will restart on Friday, 16 January.
The tournament schedule has been adjusted, with the Eliminator and Qualifier matches pushed back by one day and now set for 20 January.
The episode highlights growing tensions between players and administrators, as well as the influence players now hold in standing up for respect and fair treatment in professional cricket.
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