Tamim Iqbal, who took on the role of president of the ad hoc committee at the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on April 7, had previously held two press conferences where he did not entertain questions. However, on Thursday, he engaged in a comprehensive question-and-answer session with journalists after delivering his initial statements.
During the press briefing, Tamim discussed various development plans for Bangladesh cricket, including upgrades to stadium infrastructure, restructuring of domestic competitions, expansion of grassroots programs, and administrative reforms. Fahim Sinha, another member of the BCB ad hoc committee, was also present at the press conference.
Tamim emphasized that the changes being introduced are part of a gradual process rather than an immediate overhaul. He stated, “We’re not making sudden, drastic changes that will completely transform Bangladesh cricket overnight, but this marks a beginning.”
Key initiatives highlighted during the briefing included plans to install a 27,000 square feet canopy at Mirpur’s Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium for enhanced spectator comfort, conducting surveys for the installation of solar panels on stadium rooftops to reduce electricity costs and promote sustainability, proposing a new second-tier three-day competition under the National Cricket League (NCL) to provide a platform for additional players, and aiming to hold matches in regional grounds to broaden engagement.
Additionally, the BCB plans to collaborate with club and private academies to host age-group camps and domestic matches, with the election process expected to commence on May 3, leading to elections within 30-45 days. Tamim also expressed his intention to run for the BCB presidency in the upcoming election, emphasizing adherence to the constitution and leaving decisions on constitutional amendments to an elected board.
Furthermore, efforts are being made to strengthen ties with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to secure better bilateral series and high-profile tours for Bangladesh. Discussions on the potential return of Shakib Al Hasan and other former captains such as Mashrafe Bin Mortaza and Naimur Rahman Durjoy were extended, with consideration for future roles if legal issues are resolved. Tamim stressed the importance of not focusing solely on one individual when discussing former captains.
