June 11, 2025 2:34 am

BCB Responds to Allegations of Financial Irregularities: Calls Reports ‘False and Misleading’

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April 26, 2025 2:44 pm
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The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has responded to recent media reports concerning alleged financial misconduct, calling them “factually incorrect” and “aimed at tarnishing the image of the BCB President.” In a statement issued on Saturday, the board strongly denied the accusations and claimed the information was presented in a misleading and deliberate manner.

According to the statement, BCB President Faruq Ahmed, who took office in August 2024, has prioritized financial transparency and security since the beginning of his tenure. These measures were introduced against the backdrop of recent political unrest in the country and past allegations of financial irregularities within the board.

As part of the reform, BCB decided to conduct financial transactions only with banks classified in the “Green” and “Yellow” zones by Bangladesh Bank, indicating financial stability. The board withdrew Tk 2.5 billion from high-risk banks—of which Tk 2.38 billion was reinvested in safer banks, and Tk 120 million was allocated for operational expenses in a designated account.

The board emphasized that this decision was not made unilaterally by the president. It was jointly authorized by two board members—Finance Committee Chairman Fahim Sinha and Tender & Purchase Committee Chairman Mahbubul Anam. The president did not sign off on the transactions himself.

The BCB also stated that since September 2024, all of its funds and fixed deposits have been held in 13 reputable banks. This move has generated an additional 2–5% in interest income compared to previous returns.

Furthermore, the board claimed to have secured sponsorship worth nearly Tk 120 million from these banks over the past six months, with a promise of an additional Tk 200 million for future infrastructure development.

While the BCB reiterated its respect for constructive and fact-based journalism, it urged media outlets to refrain from spreading misinformation that could damage the image of Bangladesh cricket.

The statement also warned that certain “vested interests” inside and outside the board are attempting to disrupt its financial stability and administrative integrity.