Tamim Iqbal has revealed that he was unable to contact former Bangladesh captain Aminul Islam Bulbul while attempting to invite him to a special ceremony, later discovering that he had been blocked on phone and messaging platforms.
Tamim, who is currently leading the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s ad-hoc committee, made the remarks during a ceremony organised to honour former national team captains with ‘captain’s cards’.
The former opener said he personally tried to invite all past captains but was unable to reach several due to different circumstances.
“Many could not attend today for various reasons. I tried to speak with everyone. I called Mashrafe bhai and Shakib. I couldn’t speak to (Naimur Rahman) Durjoy bhai as he is in a situation (in custody), but I contacted his wife and informed her. I told her we would send the card to his family,” Tamim said.
He then explained his failed attempt to contact Bulbul.
“I called Bulbul bhai and sent him messages. Then I realised that I am also blocked — on both phone and WhatsApp. So I couldn’t get in touch with him.”
The development comes shortly after the board led by Bulbul was dissolved, with an ad-hoc committee headed by Tamim formed by the National Sports Council.
Bulbul had rejected the decision, maintaining that he remained the legitimate president. However, recognition of Tamim’s board by the International Cricket Council effectively ended the dispute.
Within ten days of taking charge on 7 April, Tamim arranged the event to honour former captains — a group that includes himself. As Bangladesh’s first World Cup captain in 1999, Bulbul was also set to receive a card, though contact could not be established.
Tamim added that those who missed the ceremony would still be able to collect their cards at a convenient time.
“These cards are ready for you. Please collect them whenever it suits you,” he said.
According to Tamim, the ‘captain’s card’ will allow former captains free entry to Bangladesh matches both at home and abroad. Additional benefits include VVIP parking, health insurance, and 24-hour access to BCB medical services.
He also indicated that further benefits could be introduced in the future as the board continues to grow.
