Speculation had long been rife that former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal would enter the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Although he had previously kept his cards close to his chest, Tamim has now confirmed his decision to stand in the upcoming elections.
The country’s leading opener of his generation will first contest for a director’s post, which, under the BCB’s constitution, is a prerequisite for running for the presidency. Once elected as director, Tamim has made clear that his ultimate ambition is to contest the presidency.
In a move that has added intrigue to the build-up, current BCB president Aminul Islam Bulbul has also announced that he will stand again. With two heavyweight former cricketers vying for the top post, the October polls already promise excitement and uncertainty.
For several days, speculation had also swirled around the future of another former captain and sitting director, Akram Khan. Many had wondered why Akram, a long-serving board member, was not putting himself forward for the presidency. On Monday, he revealed his reasons publicly.
Speaking to the media, Akram explained, “Since another member of my family is entering the election, I do not think it is right for two of us from the same family to serve on the board. Tamim is like my own son; I have carried him in my arms since he was a child. That is why I have stepped aside. It does not look right otherwise. If he becomes president, that is enough. Age is also a factor for me.”
The BCB elections for the 25-member board of directors will take place on 4 October. The newly elected directors will then choose the next president from among themselves. Apart from Tamim, former cricketers, including Faruque Ahmed have also declared their candidacies for director positions.
With Bulbul, Tamim and other prominent names now in the fray, the coming weeks promise a gripping chapter in Bangladesh cricket politics.
