Sports Ministry Forms Probe Committee Over Alleged Irregularities in BCB Elections

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The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has issued a strong warning to the Bangladesh Sports Ministry against вмеш interfering in its internal affairs, following the formation of an investigation committee to probe alleged malpractice in last year’s BCB elections.

The controversy stems from the ministry’s decision to appoint a five-member committee on March 11, tasked with examining claims of “irregularities, manipulation, and abuse of power” during the elections that saw Aminul Islam re-elected as BCB president. The committee has been given 15 working days to submit its findings.

In response, the BCB expressed concern over potential government interference, warning that such actions could violate international cricket governance norms. The board also revealed that the matter has been informally discussed with senior officials from the International Cricket Council (ICC), which has previously suspended boards like those of Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka for similar issues.

The BCB emphasized its willingness to engage in dialogue with the National Sports Council to better understand the “context, intent, and possible implications” of the government’s move. However, it has also urged the authorities to withdraw the investigation committee altogether to protect the autonomy and stability of Bangladesh cricket.

“Safeguarding the independence and progress of Bangladesh cricket is paramount,” the BCB stated, highlighting concerns over the country’s standing in the international cricket community.

The dispute traces back to allegations made by former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal, who accused Aminul Islam of influencing the election process. Tamim claimed that the BCB president had requested changes to councillors in certain districts and that nomination deadlines were extended twice unfairly.

Tamim withdrew his candidacy on October 1, shortly before the elections, while Aminul denied all allegations ahead of the polls on October 5.

Following the elections, criticism intensified as several Dhaka-based clubs and officials alleged “election engineering” and questioned the legitimacy of the board. A section of these clubs, which fall under Category 2 in the BCB electoral structure, have since labeled the current board “illegal” and boycotted the 2025–26 Dhaka league season.