BCB establishes independent inquiry body amid BPL corruption allegations
What's the story
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has established an independent inquiry body to aid its Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) in ongoing investigations into the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).
This comes after recent corruption allegations surrounding the BPL.
The board announced its commitment to ensure a fair and transparent cricketing environment, and pledged to take all necessary actions to uphold the sport's integrity in Bangladesh.
Media response
BCB responds to media reports on potential corruption
The BCB has taken note of media reports of possible corruption incidents in the tournament. However, the board's ACU has not confirmed these allegations.
In a press release, the board said, "The BCB has also come across media coverage regarding potential anti-corruption concerns about the BPL."
The board reiterated its strong commitment to maintaining the integrity and spirit of cricket in Bangladesh.
Past probes
BCB's anti-corruption measures and previous investigations
The BCB stressed that it strictly follows the ICC Anti-Corruption Code for Participants and has a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption in any form.
The board's anti-corruption unit is constantly monitoring all integrity-related matters in Bangladesh cricket, dealing with them with due confidentiality and discretion.
Notably, this is the first time since 2013 that the BCB has announced an investigation into BPL corruption allegations.
Payment issues
Bangladesh government investigates BPL's non-payment of players
In other news, the Bangladesh government has constituted a fact-finding committee to probe the BPL's failure to pay players in the 2024-25 season.
The three-member committee includes NSC director (sports) Humayun Kabir, assistant director (sports) Sajia Afrin, and NSC chairman's private secretary Saiful Islam.
They have been tasked with submitting their report on the matter within seven days.
Backlash details
BCB faces backlash over non-payment to players
The non-payment issue has turned out to be a major headache for the BCB, which allegedly didn't take bank guarantees from all the BPL teams ahead of the tournament.
Reportedly, more than one team has failed to pay their players.
The Durbar Rajshahi players have spearheaded the protest so far, with local players boycotting a practice session in Chattogram and overseas players refusing to play against Rangpur Riders in Dhaka.