The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has found itself at the center of a growing controversy after former Asian Cricket Council (ACC) CEO Syed Ashraful Haque made bold and unsettling claims about the existence of a “syndicate” operating within the organization. Speaking candidly in a recent interview, Haque not only voiced concerns about internal manipulation but also declared his intention to contest the upcoming BCB presidential election—if, and only if, certain conditions are met.
The headquarters of the BCB, located at the iconic Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka, has long been considered the nerve center of Bangladeshi cricket. But according to Haque, behind closed doors, power is allegedly being consolidated by a group of individuals who are prioritizing their own interests over the future of the sport.
“I Have Heard About a Syndicate”
“I have heard about a syndicate,” Haque stated, referencing a group of powerful figures within the BCB who, he claims, control multiple voting clubs and influence board decisions behind the scenes. While Haque stopped short of naming specific individuals, his remarks have cast a shadow over the integrity of the board’s governance structure.
“The system needs to change,” he said. “We cannot keep progressing if decisions are made by a few, for a few. Cricket is a national sport—it deserves better oversight, transparency, and inclusion.”
His comments have sparked a wave of conversation across the Bangladeshi cricket community, with fans, players, and analysts debating the implications of such a syndicate—if it indeed exists. The issue at hand is not merely administrative but could deeply impact the sport’s future in a cricket-loving nation.
A Bid for the BCB Presidency
Syed Ashraful Haque, who has decades of experience in cricket administration and once held the top post in the ACC, has confirmed his interest in returning to BCB leadership. However, his candidacy comes with a caveat.
“I’m interested, provided there is no interference or there is no influence from the government. If there is any, I don’t think I can go there. Secondly, it has to be a completely free and fair election,” Haque stated unequivocally.
This conditional offer to stand for election underscores his desire for reform within the organization. Haque’s emphasis on a transparent, non-partisan electoral process highlights a concern many insiders have shared in hushed tones for years—politics, both internal and governmental, may be obstructing the board’s ability to function efficiently and fairly.
A Long-Standing Concern
Concerns about club politics and voting blocks within the BCB are not new. The structure of the board allows various sports and cricket clubs from around the country to vote during elections, a system that has been criticized for being vulnerable to manipulation.
Allegations of multiple clubs being controlled by the same individuals have circulated for years, with some insiders accusing board members of using these clubs as tools to secure votes and maintain long-term control over decision-making positions.
Haque’s remarks have given voice to these lingering suspicions, and his public stance may trigger deeper investigations or calls for independent auditing of the electoral process.
Mixed Reactions in the Cricket Community
The allegations and Haque’s remarks have drawn a wide range of reactions.
Some former players and administrators have praised Haque for speaking out. “It takes courage to challenge the status quo,” said one anonymous source within the BCB. “This could be a turning point if people rally behind transparency.”
However, others believe Haque’s timing and intent could be politically motivated, particularly given the proximity to the upcoming board elections. Detractors argue that voicing such claims only when entering the fray raises questions about motives.
Still, the broader conversation about governance in Bangladeshi cricket has been reignited—and that, regardless of motive, could be seen as a win for the sport.
The Need for Reform
Bangladesh has made significant strides on the field in recent years. From winning home series against top sides to producing world-class players, the nation has begun to shed its “underdog” status. However, progress off the field, particularly in administration and grassroots development, has lagged behind.
Transparency, merit-based appointments, financial accountability, and long-term strategic planning are areas many believe the BCB must urgently address. Haque’s intervention, while controversial, has once again brought these issues to the forefront.
What Happens Next?
As of now, the BCB has not officially responded to Haque’s claims. Whether the board will release a statement, conduct an internal review, or simply ignore the allegations remains to be seen. However, pressure is likely to mount from stakeholders demanding more clarity on the inner workings of the board and the validity of election procedures.
Given the media attention and public interest, especially in cricket-mad Bangladesh, this issue is unlikely to fade quickly. With Haque considering a run for the presidency and advocating for sweeping reforms, the coming months may prove to be pivotal in shaping the future direction of Bangladeshi cricket.
Final Thoughts from Sports Club India
At Sports Club India, we believe in highlighting not just the triumphs on the field, but the truth behind the headlines. Cricket is more than just a game—it’s a powerful social force, especially in South Asia. Allegations like those made by Syed Ashraful Haque deserve careful examination, not just for the integrity of the Bangladesh Cricket Board, but for the future of cricket in the region.
Stay tuned as we continue to monitor this developing story and provide in-depth analysis, expert opinions, and on-ground updates from across the cricketing world.
