The Bangladesh cricket community has been thrown into fresh turmoil following a controversial comment targeting former national captain Tamim Iqbal by a director of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). The remark has intensified debates surrounding Bangladesh’s decision not to participate in the T20 World Cup in India, stirring considerable unease within cricketing circles.
The incident dates back to 7 January 2026, when Tamim, speaking at a public event, emphasised that decisions regarding World Cup participation should prioritise the long-term interests of Bangladeshi cricket. He highlighted that approximately 90 per cent of Bangladesh’s cricket revenue comes from the International Cricket Council (ICC), underlining the financial and developmental stakes of international competitions.
However, Tamim’s comments were not well-received by Nazmul Islam, the BCB’s Finance Committee Chairman. Nazmul posted a statement on Facebook alongside a photograph of Tamim, writing:
“Yet another tested Indian agent has emerged before the people of Bengal.”
The statement drew immediate and intense criticism from former cricketers, including Hamin Ahmed, also a member of the popular band Miles. Hamin described the remark as “unacceptable and outrageous”, adding:
“Labelling Tamim Iqbal as a ‘dalal’ is utterly disgraceful. The BCB must remove him from his position and demand an official apology.”
Other national cricketers, including Mahmudullah Riyad, Taijul Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Mehedi Hasan Miraz, and Saif Islam, also voiced their disapproval, condemning the remark as inappropriate and damaging to the image of Bangladesh cricket.
BCB President Aminul Islam Bulbul, speaking to a television channel, reiterated:
“No player should be subjected to such remarks. They harm the dignity of our cricket.”
The Cricketers Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWA) has also lodged a formal protest against Nazmul Islam’s comment, demanding accountability and remedial action.
For clarity, the key details of the controversy are summarised below:
| Subject | Details |
|---|---|
| Central Issue | Tamim Iqbal labelled an “Indian agent” |
| Commentator | Nazmul Islam, BCB Director & Finance Committee Chairman |
| Date of Comment | 7 January 2026 |
| Tamim’s Position | Decisions should prioritise long-term national cricket interests |
| Protesters | Hamin Ahmed, Mahmudullah Riyad, Taijul Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Mehedi Hasan Miraz, Saif Islam |
| BCB Response | Strong condemnation by President Aminul Islam Bulbul |
| Organisational Action | Formal protest lodged by Cricketers Welfare Association |
The episode has reignited debate over the ethical and moral responsibilities of cricket administrators in Bangladesh. Experts argue that fostering a respectful environment, free from personal attacks and defamatory statements, is essential for the integrity and future growth of cricket in the country.