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"We'll Punish Culprits": BCB To Take Strict Measures Against Match-Fixers

Soumyajit Dutta

Faruque Ahmed [Source: @BCBtigers/X]Faruque Ahmed [Source: @BCBtigers/X]

Bangladesh cricket faces renewed turmoil as match-fixing allegations resurface, casting a shadow over its domestic leagues. Following suspicions during the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), a recent Dhaka Premier Division match between Gulshan CC and Shinepukur CC sparked fresh corruption concerns. 

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has launched an investigation, though president Nazmul Hassan Papon claims fixing has "reduced significantly" in lower-tier leagues but persists sporadically. 

The controversy coincides with financial struggles, including broadcasters shunning the upcoming Zimbabwe Test series, prompting state-owned BTV to step in as a last-minute saviour.

BCB Vows Zero Tolerance Amid Anti-Corruption Probe

BCB chief Faruque Ahmed acknowledged the lingering threat of corruption, stressing the board’s commitment to rooting out malpractice. 

"Fixed games have reduced... but not stopped totally. If you ask players to underperform, you ruin cricket’s essence," Faruque said during a youth cricket event, as quoted by Cricbuzz.

The board pledged full cooperation with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), which recently raided BCB offices. "We will punish culprits if evidence emerges," Ahmed added, noting the ACC’s visit followed specific complaints.

Faruque Highlights Systemic Reforms, Youth Focus

Ahmed linked corruption reduction to systemic reforms, emphasizing meritocracy in lower leagues underscoring the BCB’s push to revive domestic cricket’s integrity.

"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," said Faruque Ahmed.

Meanwhile, the board’s "Khelbei Bangladesh" initiative seeks to engage youth, hoping to rebuild trust and passion for the sport amid ongoing challenges. Financial Woes Hit 

Broadcasting; BTV Rescues Zimbabwe Series

With private broadcasters avoiding Bangladesh’s Test series against Zimbabwe due to weak sponsorship interest, BTV agreed to air the matches free of cost. 

"The sponsorship market is dull globally... We’re grateful to BTV for ensuring fans don’t miss out," Ahmed stated. The BCB is also finalizing tender documents to sell media rights for the home series until 2027, aiming to attract international bidders.