Conflict in BCB: What form of cricket is this!

If Dr. Bhupen Hazarika were alive, he might have been embarrassed by the events unfolding in Bangladesh's sports arena! The renowned artist's song "This world is a playground," which includes the line "sports is a field of peace," does not seem to apply at all in the 149,210 square kilometers of this land. The National Sports Council (NSC) recognizes over 50 sports federations, but the message in that famous song by the Indian artist has not been established anywhere. This has already become evident in other sports federations, and now it is glaringly apparent in the recent events surrounding the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).

Nazmul Abedin Fahim, known for his integrity in cricket, was highly respected in the sport and remained above any controversy. However, just like in other sectors, the winds of change reached cricket as well with the shift in political power. In this new climate, Ahmed Sazzadul Alam Bobby and Jalal Yunus were removed from their positions as BCB directors. Faruk Ahmed was appointed as president and Nazmul Abedin Fahim as a director by the NSC. After these changes, many began to feel that the Bangladesh Cricket Board, the country's most influential sports organization, might finally be free from the bizarre actions of Nazmul Hassan Papon.

Some people had concerns, and those concerns didn’t take long to materialize. Less than two months after Faruk Ahmed took over as BCB President on August 21, he removed Chandika Hathurusingha from the position of head coach. The process of this dismissal was far from beyond question. Cricket analysts openly stated that this decision reflected personal stubbornness. Even though Faruk Ahmed did not get involved in any major scandals, after becoming a board director, there were various whispers surrounding Nazmul Abedin Fahim.

Nazmul Abedin Fahim also made headlines during the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), which was launched with a promise of novelty. He became the subject of criticism after getting involved in a dispute with board president Faruk Ahmed. Amid the dispute between the two influential BCB officials, former cricketer Khaled Mahmud Sujon emerged as a "counterparty" to both. The former national team captain took a jab at both, accusing Nazmul Abedin Fahim of being driven by "greed and desire."

When personal interests rise above the spirit of brotherhood in sports, conflict inevitably follows. This inevitable scenario is now unfolding in the country's cricket scene. It goes without saying that the recent events have left officials, players, and everyone involved in the game disappointed. For the greater good of cricket, it is crucial to resolve this dispute. If there are internal disagreements, they should be addressed through discussion. Otherwise, bitterness among officials will grow, and conflicts will spill into the open. Whatever the case, such issues will not bring any positive outcomes for the country’s cricket.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) may be ahead of other sports federations in terms of audience appeal, financial status, and global reach, but the internal situation of the country's cricket regulatory body is providing fodder for ridicule! Globally, sports serve as a bond of brotherhood, and this concept can be found in the books of Bangladesh's sports scene. However, the reality is quite the opposite, as is frequently evident. This has now also been witnessed in cricket. Just as parental disputes negatively affect their children, conflicts between board officials can similarly impact the country's cricket.

Before Faruk Ahmed and Nazmul Abedin Fahim entered the scene, a personal officer (commonly known as press secretary) to the Youth and Sports Adviser, Mohammad Mahfuzul Alam Bhuiyan, was already a topic of discussion. According to various media reports, Mahfuzul Alam Bhuiyan reportedly told BCB President Faruk Ahmed, "We know how you became the BCB president." Internal issues surrounding mismanagement during the BPL created intense dissatisfaction among those involved. This dissatisfaction was reflected in the exchange of words.

The opening of the BPL was a chaotic affair. The plans related to the July-August movement, which were meant to honor those killed or injured during the protests, lacked proper implementation. There was disorder over ticketing, and the "Mugdho Corner" for free water distribution for spectators was not prepared. The "Abu Sayed Corner" was also unprepared. Furthermore, 100 people did not receive courtesy tickets in time for the July-August movement. This caused frustration, which was evident in the heated exchange of words between Faruk Ahmed and Mahfuzul Alam in the president's box. The question arises: why was there such disorder in an event that had been planned for so long?

The government has repeatedly stated, "This year's BPL will be different from the previous editions." And this is the example! For this year's BPL, the current government has announced the 'Festival of Youth 2025.' It is reported that a significant amount of funds have been allocated from the festival's budget to the BPL organizers. However, the Bangladesh Cricket Board's (BCB) role in implementing the 'Festival of Youth 2025' has come under question.

The Bangladesh Kabaddi Federation has shown remarkable skill in branding the 'Festival of Youth 2025,' from which the BCB could learn! The branding began with the Victory Day Kabaddi competition. Those involved in the national sport are undertaking this festival's implementation like a grand project. Several lakh players are being involved in competitions at the union, upazila, district, division, and final stages. Plans have been made to organize competitions in both boys' and girls' categories. Through this event, the Bangladesh Kabaddi Federation aims to select young players to smooth their future journey. The Kabaddi event will inspire youth to a great extent, and cricket could have created an even bigger impact. Instead, the country's most influential sport is now making headlines for its involvement in disputes and negative news.

The Bangladesh Kabaddi Federation has shown remarkable skill in branding the 'Festival of Youth 2025,' from which the BCB could learn! The branding began with the Victory Day Kabaddi competition. Those involved in the national sport are undertaking this festival's implementation like a grand project. Several lakh players are being involved in competitions at the union, upazila, district, division, and final stages. Plans have been made to organize competitions in both boys' and girls' categories. Through this event, the Bangladesh Kabaddi Federation aims to select young players to smooth their future journey. The Kabaddi event will inspire youth to a great extent, and cricket could have created an even bigger impact. Instead, the country's most influential sport is now making headlines for its involvement in disputes and negative news.

Mahbub Sarkar: Sports Journalist and Columnist