An investigation has been launched into allegations of match-fixing involving Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) director Mokhlesur Rahman Shamim, with the matter referred to the BCB’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU).
The issue emerged despite the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) Governing Council maintaining a strict, zero-tolerance approach towards corruption during the recently concluded season. BPL Governing Council member secretary Iftekhar Rahman Mithu confirmed that the case has been sent to Alex Marshall, head of the ACU, for a full inquiry.
Speaking to journalists, Mithu said the council had operated at the highest possible anti-corruption standards throughout the tournament.
“Fixing and the ACU were taken very seriously this time. We worked at the maximum level possible, similar to the standards used at ICC T20 World Cups,” he said. “From that process, one thing emerged – a phone conversation involving a BCB director.”
Mithu stressed that the investigation would be conducted without compromise or concealment.
“Whether he was involved in fixing or attempted it is not for us to decide. The matter has been sent to Alex Marshall, and he is investigating it. We need to give him time. He will come back with his findings,” he said.
He added that no one would be shielded during the process.
“There will be no shortcomings in his report, and there will be no scope for hiding anything. We have 25 directors on the board. Until someone is proven guilty, assumptions should not be made,” Mithu said.
The allegations surfaced following a report by a local sports journalist, which claimed that Shamim was linked to fixing activities. Soon after the report was published, Shamim stepped aside from all BCB duties. At the time, he was also serving as chairman of the board’s audit committee.
Explaining his decision, Shamim said he resigned to ensure the investigation remained fair and credible. He also clarified that stepping down did not amount to an admission of guilt, stating that his priority was to allow “a completely impartial, transparent and acceptable investigation”.
The ACU inquiry is ongoing, with the BCB awaiting Alex Marshall’s findings before taking any further steps.
