Mahbubul Anam, widely known as Mahbub Anam, has been one of the most influential directors of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Despite changes in board directors and presidents over the years, he remained a constant presence. Over his long association with Bangladeshi cricket, he has held key roles, including chairman of important departments such as media and grounds.
This cricket administrator was also a prominent name in discussions about the potential presidency of the BCB. However, it was confirmed on Thursday night that he will not contest the upcoming BCB presidential election in October, although the official schedule has yet to be announced.
Speaking to several media outlets in his capacity as chairman of the BCB Grounds Committee and the BPL Governing Council, Mahbub indicated that he is stepping aside primarily due to club politics. Calls seeking further comment went unanswered, but he noted that the absence of a strong panel was also a significant reason. Reflecting on recent developments, he stated that the current environment is not conducive to holding elections.
It is an open secret that Mahbub has had a strained relationship with former president Faruk Ahmed, who has criticised him publicly in several interviews. By contrast, he maintains a reportedly good relationship with current president Aminul Islam Bulbul.
Reports suggest that a senior official from a major business group has entered the fray to secure votes for the upcoming BCB elections on behalf of Mohammedan Sporting Club. Since directors are largely elected based on club votes, controlling more clubs translates into more votes. Mahbub has chosen not to participate to avoid this battle for club dominance.
Mahbub played cricket for Mohammedan Sporting Club during the 1980s. After retiring, he began his administrative career in 1986 with the CCDM. He started working with the cricket board in 2001, when he was elected as a member of the BCB Executive Committee, and has been involved in cricket administration in Bangladesh for nearly 25 years.