Bangladesh cricketers boycott and have issued a stark ultimatum to BCB director M Najmul Islam, demanding his resignation amid the Tamim Iqbal controversy, with a potential boycott of all sports from Thursday.
Bangladesh cricketers boycott threat escalated on Wednesday when players demanded the immediate resignation of Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) director M Najmul Islam. The ultimatum, issued by the Cricketers’ Organisation of Bangladesh (COAB), warns of suspending all sporting activities if Najmul fails to step down before the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) match at 1:00 PM today. This stems from Najmul’s controversial remarks labelling former captain Tamim Iqbal an “Indian agent,” triggering widespread outrage in the cricketing community.
The demand highlights growing tensions within Bangladesh cricket, particularly as the nation grapples with uncertainty over participation in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Scheduled for later this year in India, the tournament has become a flashpoint due to security concerns cited by the BCB and the Bangladesh government. Players argue that Najmul’s comments undermine their professional standing and could exacerbate financial losses if the team withdraws.
Cricketers Ultimatum BCB: Demands and Deadline
COAB president Mohammad Mithun announced the cricketers ultimatum BCB during a Zoom press conference on Wednesday night. He stated that Najmul must resign before the BPL match, or all sports would halt. This includes ongoing BPL fixtures and potential impacts on national team preparations.
Mithun’s statement followed Najmul’s media interaction earlier that day, where he addressed the T20 World Cup implications. As BCB finance committee chairman, Najmul claimed the board would face no financial loss from withdrawal, but players would forfeit match fees and international exposure. He dismissed compensation ideas, questioning if the BCB should reclaim expenditures when players underperform.
Players view these remarks as dismissive of their contributions. The ultimatum builds on earlier protests, including a letter from the Cricketers’ Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB) five days ago, demanding accountability for Najmul’s social media post.
Tamim Iqbal Controversy: Origins and Reactions
The Tamim Iqbal controversy ignited last week when Najmul shared a Facebook post quoting Tamim’s advice to the BCB. Tamim urged careful consideration of ICC revenue implications before deciding on T20 World Cup participation, noting that much of the board’s income derives from such events.
In response, Najmul wrote that the country had “witnessed the emergence of another proven Indian agent.” He later clarified it as a personal observation, but the damage persisted. CWAB condemned the remark in a statement, calling it “utterly condemnable” and an insult to Tamim, Bangladesh’s most successful opener with 16 years of service.
National team members voiced dismay on social media. Fast bowler Taskin Ahmed stated such comments harm Bangladesh cricket’s progress. Spinner Taijul Islam described the language as “tasteless” and “completely unacceptable,” demanding a public apology. Former Test captain Mominul Haque labelled it an insult to the entire cricketing fraternity.
The BCB responded with an official statement on Wednesday, expressing regret for remarks deemed inappropriate or offensive. It clarified that such comments do not reflect the organisation’s values or official position.
BCB Najmul Resignation: Financial and Security Context
Calls for BCB Najmul resignation intensified amid broader debates on the T20 World Cup. The BCB has informed the ICC that the team will not travel to India, citing security threats to players, media, and fans. This includes references to recent incidents like the release of Mustafizur Rahman from the Indian Premier League due to extremist threats.
Najmul reiterated that the BCB prioritises national interest and player safety. He posed a rhetorical question: “If the board itself does not exist, will cricket or cricketers remain?” Describing the relationship as “part and parcel,” he emphasised mutual dependence.
Critics argue the board benefits from ICC distributions and sponsorships tied to player performances. Players reach national levels through personal effort, yet face potential losses without board support. If Bangladesh withdraws, the ICC might revise venues or fixtures, but financial repercussions for individuals remain unclear.
Background: Tensions in Bangladesh Cricket
Bangladesh cricket has faced similar crises before. In 2019, players staged a strike over pay and governance, leading to concessions from the BCB. That event involved 11 demands, with the board accepting nine, including improved salaries and better facilities.
Today’s Bangladesh cricketers boycott threat echoes those grievances, amplified by geopolitical factors. The refusal to play in India stems from ongoing diplomatic strains, with the government opposing travel. This could affect Bangladesh’s ICC rankings and future tournaments.
The Tamim Iqbal controversy adds a personal layer. As a retired star, Tamim’s comments on revenue highlight players’ stakes. His 5146 ODI runs and leadership legacy make the “Indian agent” label particularly stinging, perceived as questioning national loyalty.
BCB president received the CWAB protest letter, but no further action has been announced. The board’s regret statement aims to de-escalate, yet players demand concrete steps like resignation.
What’s Next: Potential Impacts of Bangladesh Cricketers Boycott
If the cricketers ultimatum BCB goes unheeded, a Bangladesh cricketers boycott could disrupt the BPL, valued at millions in sponsorships. Matches today might proceed under uncertainty, but a full suspension would affect broadcasters, fans, and international commitments.
The ICC may intervene if the T20 World Cup boycott materialises, potentially imposing fines or altering schedules. For players, lost earnings from match fees which are estimated at USD 10000 per game could total significant sums.
Resolution might involve mediated talks between COAB, CWAB, and BCB. Analysts suggest Najmul’s BCB Najmul resignation could restore harmony, allowing focus on upcoming series. Without it, the rift risks long-term damage to Bangladesh cricket’s reputation in South Asia.
The Bangladesh cricketers boycott remains a pivotal moment, testing the balance between board authority and player rights.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, January 15th, 2026
Follow SouthAsianDesk on X, Instagram and Facebook for insights on business and current affairs from across South Asia.
