In recent years, BCB has been severely impacted by the dreaded problem of match-fixing. Initially, there were reports of several questionable games during the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). Just when it appeared that these accusations were slowly dissipating, new accusations of potential corruption surfaced in a major scandal during a home game in Bangladesh. Although match rigging has significantly decreased, BCB manager Faruque Ahmed acknowledged that it has not yet been completely abolished.
Following concerns expressed about the Bashundhara Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League 2024–25 match between Gulshan Cricket Club and Shinepukur Cricket Club, the BCB had declared that they had opened an investigation.
“I think fixed games have been reduced significantly in First Division, Second Division, and Third Division but it has not stopped totally,” Faruque told reporters after the program’s launch. Faruque was attending a cricket carnival program organised by Khelbei Bangladesh to promote the game among young people.
“If the games are fixed, you cannot get good players because you are asking your best player to score a duck or you will ask your best player to bowl wides and no balls, and not take wickets, so that is not cricket at all,” he stated.
“I got here two or three days ago (from the ICC conference), and our technical committee will conduct a comprehensive inquiry. We will undoubtedly punish the offenders if we obtain any conclusive evidence,” he continued.
Ahmed also promised their full cooperation to the members of the Anti-Corruption Commission who recently raided the BCB headquarters in response to claims of irregularities.
“I got back from the ICC meeting that evening, and I’m sure the members of the Anti Corruption Commission had a predetermined agenda when they arrived at BCB following complaints about particular matters. In terms of supplying papers and documentation, I have no doubt that the Board will work closely with them,” Faruque added.
“The CEO is working on answering all of the ACC’s questions, as I requested. “I am unable to predict the extent of their investigation; only time will be able to tell,” he stated.
When the Board was having trouble securing any broadcasters for the two-match Test series against Zimbabwe, Faruque thanked the State-owned station Bangladesh Television for stepping forward to stream the series.
Cricbuzz was informed by representatives of various TV networks that they have no interest in covering this match because the sponsorship market has been drab and no one is prepared to pay for the advertisements. Faruque expressed the same opinion.
“I believe there is a financial slump in both the domestic and foreign arenas. Due to sponsor-related issues, Jio Star, who handle the international events for ICC, is also struggling. After the change of government, we are also going through a difficult period,” Faruque remarked.
“We appreciate that the series will be televised by BTV. Getting their slots was challenging, therefore I would especially like to thank the secretary who is here. Everyone had to purchase radio time, and we spoke with him on behalf of the Board. She and BTV were really generous to come forward and offer to show the series for free. At least there will be an opportunity for people to watch the game, which is crucial. Our efforts to recruit another TV channel are currently ongoing. Even though we don’t have much time, we will give it to them if we do.”
As you are aware, we have already produced the tender paperwork for the sale of the media rights for the ensuing two and a half years. We’ll make an effort to welcome parties from abroad as well,” he continued.
In order to assist the Board with the tendering process for the global media rights to the men’s team’s home series through June 2027, BCB had requested expressions of interest (EOIs) from consulting firms on March 11.
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