Bangladesh Cricket Board Investigates Threats Against Players Amid Protests

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is taking serious measures to investigate threats made against players involved in protests, particularly targeting Mohammad Mithun, the president of the Cricketers Welfare Association of Bangladesh. Mithun has reported receiving threatening calls while advocating for player rights. Additionally, the BCB is addressing controversial remarks made about former captain Tamim Iqbal, who has been labeled an 'Indian agent' for his calls for dialogue amid rising tensions in cricket relations with India. The board is committed to ensuring the safety of its players and addressing these serious allegations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 16, 2026, 23:20 IST

BCB to Investigate Threats Against Protesting Players

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced an investigation into the threats directed at protesting players and Mohammad Mithun, the president of the Cricketers Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB). Mithun reported receiving threatening phone calls, as noted by ESPNcricinfo. He has been at the forefront of the players' boycott and has also engaged in discussions with the BCB.

During a late-night press conference in Dhaka, Mithun stated that he has not made any offensive remarks throughout the situation, which led to the postponement of two Bangladesh Premier League matches and several Dhaka league games. "Everyone who has appeared on camera has received negative messages and threats from various individuals," Mithun explained. "I am confident that I have not used any language that belittles anyone or sparked a debate against the country. Our primary concern is cricket, focusing on our self-respect. We have been labeled as enemies of the nation, but we have never spoken ill of our country. I assure you that no CWAB member or player will ever disrespect our nation," he added.

Security Measures to Address Threats

BCB director Iftekhar has instructed the board's security team to assist Mithun and others who have received threatening calls. "It is well-known that we have a security department. I have been informed about the players' concerns regarding the calls, and we will ensure the security team addresses this matter seriously," he stated.

BCB Responds to Comments About Tamim Iqbal

The BCB director also mentioned that the board is reviewing comments made by M Nazmul Islam, who referred to former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal as an 'Indian agent.' This remark followed Iqbal's call for dialogue to ease the current tensions in cricket relations between Bangladesh and India, particularly after the release of pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for the Indian Premier League (IPL).

"The situation has escalated due to his additional comments," Iftekhar remarked. "The board president has personally expressed concerns regarding these statements. Although he has denied communicating this to some media outlets, I can confirm that it did occur."