Bangladesh Players Threaten BPL Boycott Amid T20 World Cup Standoff and Board Official’s Remarks

New Delhi  -Amid continuing uncertainty over the venues for their T20 World Cup matches, Bangladesh’s cricketers have threatened to boycott the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) in protest against remarks made by a senior Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) official.

The Cricketers’ Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB) said comments made by BCB Finance Committee chairman M. Nazmul Islam were unacceptable and amounted to an attack on the dignity of players.

Islam had earlier labelled former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal an “Indian agent” after Tamim suggested that the BCB engage in dialogue with the ICC and the BCCI to resolve the ongoing T20 World Cup venue dispute.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Islam further stated that the BCB would not suffer any significant loss if Bangladesh did not participate in the T20 World Cup, adding that the team was unwilling to travel to India for the tournament.

“The board has no profit or loss here. Whether Bangladesh plays here or not, there is no profit or loss for the board — at least for this World Cup,” he said.

Later on Wednesday evening, the Bangladesh Cricket Board issued an official statement distancing itself from Islam’s remarks and expressing regret over the controversy.

“The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) wishes to address recent comments made by a member of the Board that have generated concern. The Board expresses its sincere regret for remarks that may be deemed inappropriate, offensive, or hurtful,” the statement said.

The BCB clarified that such comments do not reflect its values, principles, or official position, nor do they align with the standards of conduct expected from individuals serving Bangladesh cricket.

The board also emphasised that it does not endorse statements made by any director or board member unless they are formally issued through its authorised spokesperson or the Media & Communications Department, adding that comments made outside these channels are personal in nature.

In a strong warning, the BCB said it would take “appropriate disciplinary action” against anyone whose conduct or remarks show disrespect towards cricketers or harm the reputation and integrity of Bangladesh cricket.

Reaffirming its support for players, the board stated that cricketers — past and present — remain at the heart of Bangladesh cricket and that their welfare and dignity are a top priority.

“The BCB remains committed to protecting the interests, dignity, and well-being of its players and to upholding professionalism, accountability, and mutual respect across all levels of the game,” the statement concluded.

With inputs from IANS