BCB chief declares war on match-fixing issues: The shadow of match-fixing continues to loom over Bangladesh cricket, raising serious concerns within the cricketing fraternity. Allegations that first surfaced during the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) have now spread into domestic competitions, sparking fresh controversy. Most recently, a match in the Bashundhara Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League 2024–25 between Gulshan Cricket Club and Shinepukur Cricket Club came under the spotlight for suspected irregularities, prompting the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to initiate a formal investigation.
BCB President Faruque Ahmed acknowledged that while such incidents have reduced over the years, the issue is far from eradicated. Speaking at a youth cricket event organized by Khelbei Bangladesh, he said, “I think fixed games have been reduced significantly in the First, Second, and Third Divisions, but it has not stopped completely. This harms cricket’s soul—when your best players are asked to fail, that’s not sport.”
He further revealed that a technical committee will oversee the investigation and that stern action would be taken if conclusive evidence surfaces. “I just returned from the ICC meeting. If we find anything concrete, the culprits will be punished without hesitation,” he added.
BCB Chief Declares War on Match-Fixing Issues in Domestic Cricket, Vows Full Action
Determined to restore the game’s integrity, Faruque assured full cooperation with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), which recently raided BCB headquarters. The visit, according to Ahmed, was likely based on specific complaints related to irregularities in the administration.
“I’ve already instructed our CEO to provide all required documents and respond to the ACC’s queries. We welcome the investigation and are ready to assist in every possible way,” he said. “Only time will tell how far the probe will go, but transparency is key.”
Ahmed also took a moment to thank Bangladesh Television (BTV) for stepping up to broadcast the upcoming Test series against Zimbabwe—at a time when commercial broadcasters showed no interest due to a slow sponsorship market. According to Ahmed, this lack of sponsorship is part of a larger financial slowdown in both domestic and international cricket.
“There is a financial lull everywhere,” he said. “Even Jio Star, who manage ICC’s global events, are struggling. The situation worsened with the recent government change. Thankfully, BTV agreed to air the matches without charge, ensuring fans still get to enjoy the game.”
BCB is also planning to bring additional broadcasters onboard if time allows. Meanwhile, the Board has already started the process of selling its media rights for the next two and a half years. On March 11, it invited Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from consulting firms to support the tendering process for international and domestic broadcasting rights up to June 2027.
“We’ve finalized the tender documents,” said Faruque. “Now, we’re hoping to attract international broadcasters and partners to promote Bangladesh cricket on a global stage.”
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