BCB to manage pending payments for BPL 2024-25 overseas players
What's the story
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has stepped up to clear the dues of all international players, who were signed from the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) draft.
The move comes after payment issues emerged during the recently concluded BPL 2024-25 season.
The tournament concluded on February 7 with a thrilling finale between Chittagong Kings and defending champions Fortune Barishal, who clinched their second title with a three-wicket victory.
Here's more.
Financial troubles
Payment issues overshadow BPL tournament
Despite the thrilling matches and packed stadiums, the BPL was marred by payment issues.
Durbar Rajshahi were the prime offenders for not clearing the dues of many of their overseas and local players.
Meanwhile, as per The Daily Star, BCB will now look after these payment disputes of foreign players who played in the BPL 2024-25 season.
Uncertainty prevails
BCB's commitment toward player payments
The BCB has still not promised to clear the pending payments of overseas cricketers directly signed for the tournament.
While it is confirmed they will clear dues for players like Durbar Rajshahi's Sri Lankan player Lahiru Samarakoon, it remains unclear if players like Ryan Burl and Mohammad Haris, who were directly signed by the franchise, will receive their pending payments.
Repatriation responsibility
BCB ensures smooth return of overseas players
Apart from resolving payment issues, the BCB is also focused on ensuring that overseas players return to their countries smoothly after their BPL stints.
This is part of the board's larger efforts to maintain the integrity of the league and provide a professional experience to all players involved.
Sued
BCB to sue Durbar Rajshahi over non-payment of players
In January, the BCB had announced that it would take legal action against the Durbar Rajshahi, for not meeting payment deadlines for overseas players and hotel expenses.
Iftekhar Rahman, BCB's media committee chairman, confirmed the development.
He said the board was frustrated with the franchise, adding that they had been given ample opportunities.
Meanwhile, the issue escalated when Rajshahi players pulled out of a game against Rangpur Riders in Mirpur.
Corruption
BCB promises severe action amid match-fixing allegations in BPL
The BCB had pledged strict action against any cricketer found guilty of misconduct in the BPL.
Meanwhile, this came after the board's Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) flagged eight matches for spot-fixing and match-fixing.
The ACU was probing 10 players while also keeping a close eye on four franchises based on anonymous tips and media reports.
Additionally, the franchises under scrutiny included Durbar Rajshahi and Dhaka Capitals, both flagged 12 times for integrity concerns.
Inquiry
BCB establishes independent inquiry body amid BPL corruption allegations
The BCB had recently established an independent inquiry body to aid its Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) in ongoing investigations into the BPL.
This came after recent corruption allegations surrounding the BPL.
Meanwhile, the board also 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.
Additionally, the BCB stressed that it strictly follows the ICC Anti-Corruption Code for Participants and has a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption.