Cricketers Announce Boycott Over Comments Against Tamim Iqbal
Bangladesh cricket has been thrown into turmoil after national players announced a boycott of all cricketing activities. The decision followed controversial remarks made by Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) director M Nazmul Islam against former national captain Tamim Iqbal.
The boycott was formally announced by Mohammad Mithun, president of the Cricketers’ Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB). He said players would not participate in any form of cricket unless Nazmul Islam resigned from his position.
The issue erupted after Nazmul Islam referred to Tamim Iqbal as an “Indian agent” in a Facebook post. The comment sparked widespread anger among current and former players, fans, and cricket officials. CWAB described the remark as offensive, unprofessional, and damaging to the dignity of Bangladeshi cricketers.
Mithun said such statements undermine respect for players who have served the country for years. He stressed that the boycott was not a symbolic threat but a firm decision to protect the integrity of the players.
BPL Matches Delayed as Boycott Takes Effect
The impact of the boycott was immediately felt across Bangladesh’s domestic cricket structure. On Thursday morning, matches in the Dhaka Cricket League failed to begin as players stayed away from the field.
The disruption extended to the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). The first scheduled match of the day between Chattogram Royals and Noakhali Express was delayed. Both teams did not arrive at the venue for the toss, which was scheduled for 12:30 pm local time.
The match was supposed to start at 1:00 pm but remained uncertain as negotiations continued behind the scenes. Mithun had earlier warned that Nazmul Islam must resign before the day’s fixtures or players would refuse to take the field.
CWAB said the remarks crossed a red line. The association stated that questioning the loyalty of a former national captain was insulting to the entire cricketing community.
BCB Distances Itself and Warns of Action
In response to growing pressure, the Bangladesh Cricket Board issued an official statement distancing itself from Nazmul Islam’s comments. The board expressed regret over the remarks and acknowledged that they may have caused hurt and offense.
The BCB clarified that the statements did not reflect its official stance or values. It stressed that only comments issued through authorised channels represent the board’s position.
The statement warned that disciplinary action could be taken against anyone whose conduct disrespects cricketers or damages the integrity of Bangladesh cricket. The board reaffirmed its support for all players, past and present, calling them the backbone of the sport.
CWAB welcomed the clarification but said it was not enough. The association demanded a public apology and accountability. It confirmed that a formal protest letter had been submitted to the BCB president.
Nazmul Islam later issued a clarification on Facebook. He said his comments reflected his personal opinion and were not meant to be interpreted officially. He again criticised Tamim Iqbal, claiming the former opener was acting in India’s favour.
The controversy continues to dominate Bangladesh cricket. With matches delayed and tensions high, the future of the BPL fixtures depends on how quickly the dispute is resolved.
