The Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) of the BCB has suggested that batsman Minhazul Abedin Sabbir be banned for at least five years for his involvement in match-fixing during the most recent Dhaka Premier League, the nation’s top List A competition.
Following an ACU inquiry into Shinepukur Cricket Club’s DPL match versus Gulshan Cricket earlier this year, which sparked controversy over two contentious dismissals, the recommendation was made.
When he stepped out of his crease against left-arm spinner Nihaduzzaman without trying to return, opener Rahim Ahmed was stumped in the 36th over of the match. After taking guard, Sabbir squatted inside his crease and leaned forward, allowing Gulshan wicketkeeper Mahidul Islam Ankon to complete an uncontested stumping in the 44th over. This was the larger shock.
By interacting with suspected bookies and neglecting to disclose approaches, Sabbir was deemed to have violated several provisions of the BCB’s Anti-Corruption Code, according to ACU papers obtained by Cricbuzz.
In accordance with Article 5 of the Code, the case has been forwarded to the BCB’s Anti-Corruption Tribunal for formal proceedings.
“Given the evidence, we are recommending at least a five-year ban from all cricket, with the possibility of eight to ten years or more,” the report notes in its conclusion.
This serves as a deterrence and illustrates how serious the offence is. A severe punishment is also justified in similar circumstances, such as Mohammad Ashraful’s eight-year ban,” it continued.
Additionally, the inquiry discovered that Sabbir had been communicating often with a foreign number that was thought to be associated with foreign bookmakers. Officials urged for collaboration with the ICC’s ACU and, if required, Interpol, and implied that international syndicates might be involved. Although Sabbir’s actions were detrimental, officials emphasised that the case has strengthened the BCB’s resolve to combat corruption.
“This case is a wake-up call and will serve as a template for stronger anti-corruption efforts in Bangladesh cricket,” the study stated.
In addition to disciplinary actions, the ACU recommended that the BCB strengthen protections in domestic competitions, such as more stringent dressing room communication guidelines, the presence of anti-corruption observers at important games, and real-time betting market monitoring to spot anomalous activity.
If the allegations are upheld by the tribunal, Sabbir would also have to go through rehabilitation programs if he wants to play cricket again. As observed in other ICC member countries, they can involve educating younger players about the perils of corruption.
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