Cricketers on Thursday remained firm in their stance as none of the teams took to the ground hours before the start of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).
Bangladesh Cricket Board (PCB) Finance Committee Chairman M. The boycott was announced in protest against what the players described as offensive comments made by Najmul Islam.
Najmul Islam faced widespread criticism after accusing Tamim Iqbal of being an “Indian agent” in a Facebook post.
The comments followed Tamim’s recent interview in which he urged the PCB to prioritize cricketing interests before taking a final decision on Bangladesh’s participation in the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup.
Tamim’s statements came after the BCB decided to travel to India, citing security reasons, following a request by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders squad for the IPL.
Najmul’s Facebook post soon caused a backlash, with screenshots circulating widely on social media. In the post, he wrote: “This time, the people of Bangladesh saw with their own eyes the emergence of another proven Indian agent.”
Earlier, Cricketers Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB) had announced that the players will not participate in the PPL unless Najmul resigns before the opening match between Nogali Express and Chattogram Royals scheduled at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium at 1:00 pm.
At 1:00 p.m., the CWAB held an impromptu press conference at a city hotel to reaffirm their position after a negotiation meeting between BCB officials and players’ representatives ended inconclusively. The meeting came hours after the CWAB issued its ultimatum.
PCB has confirmed that it has initiated disciplinary action against Najmul.
“The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) again regrets the recent objectionable comments made by a board member. We acknowledge the concern caused by the comments and reaffirm our commitment to professionalism, respect for cricketers and the values that uphold the game,” the board said in a statement.
The BCB also emphasized its commitment to proper procedures and accountability in handling internal disputes.
“As a constitutional body, the BCB is bound to resolve such matters in accordance with established rules and professional guidelines. Proper disciplinary proceedings have been initiated, a show-cause letter has been issued and the individual has been directed to submit a written reply within 48 hours. Appropriate action will be taken based on the outcome of these proceedings,” the statement added.
PCB highlighted the importance of the tournament to Bangladesh cricket and its fans and emphasized the players’ role in ensuring the success of the league.
“Bangladesh Premier League T20 2026 is in its final stages and is the country’s most popular and globally recognized domestic franchise. The board firmly believes that the BCB is the key stakeholders and lifeblood of all cricket operations,” the statement said.
Sources indicated that Thursday’s opener could be delayed by a few hours, depending on the outcome of the CWAB press conference.