The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has replied to the letter sent four days earlier by the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF), expressing regret over director Asif Akbar’s offensive comments about football and footballers.
Asif triggered controversy on 9 November during a cricket conference, where he criticised the behaviour of footballers and made remarks about occupying grounds.
BFF president Tabith Awal lodged a formal protest in a letter addressed to BCB president Aminul Islam Bulbul. BFF received the response yesterday.
The football community strongly condemned Asif’s comments, describing them as hurtful and calling for him to withdraw his remarks and apologise. Asif, however, refused to apologise and insisted the following day that his comments had been correct.
In his response, BCB president Aminul expressed regret, writing:
“If any part of the remarks caused hurt or confusion among the football community or its supporters, I sincerely apologise.”
Meanwhile, the organisation of former footballers, Sonali Otit Club, is due to hold a meeting this evening on the issue. It is understood that a strong statement against Asif may be announced.
