The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president, Faruque Ahmed, has stated that the national government has asked him to step down from the position.
Faruque, who took over as the president of the board after the exit of Nazmul Hasan on August 21, was called by the Youth and Sports Affairs Advisers, Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan, on Wednesday.
It is clear that Faruque Ahmed was informed of their intention during the meeting. Faruque Ahmed admitted to the development and added that he is yet to decide whether he will resign or not.
Speaking to the media, the 59-year-old said, “The advisor said that they don’t want to continue with me. I have not made any decision yet (regarding resignation). Let’s see what happens.”
While asked about his resignation, he said, “No, I’m not resigning. There’s no reason for me to resign at the moment. They haven’t given me any explanation, so why should I step down?”
According to sources, with Faruque is yet to step down, the government has already initiated the process to install his successor. According to sources, former national skipper Aminul Islam Bulbul has been approached by the Sports Ministry to take over the BCB presidency and has responded positively.
Bulbul is currently employed the ICC as a development officer, is reportedly seeking a three month notice period to transition into the new role.
“I was offered a role a few days ago. I’ve been asked to come in. I don’t know yet what the process will be. Yes (the Sports Council has also made a proposal). Before agreeing to their proposal, there was the issue of talking to the ICC, where I work. I said the ICC has no objection. I will come for a short time, then maybe I will go back to the ICC,” said Bulbul.
Meanwhile, many former and current cricketers have advised Faruque not to resign under the present circumstances. A Cricketer said, “He did not lobby for the post; the government brought him to the board. Now what has he done that the government no longer wants him!”
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has strictly prohibited government interference in cricket board activities. In the past, Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka faces suspensions from international cricket due to such interference.
