After a Decade, CWAB Election Held; Mithun Elected President

Ahead of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) elections in October, the academy building in Mirpur’s Sher-e-Bangla Cricket Stadium turned into a rehearsal stage for the upcoming polls. On Thursday, the Cricketers’ Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB) held its long-awaited election, creating a festive atmosphere with the presence of both former and current star cricketers.

From 3 PM to 5 PM, Mohammad Mithun was elected CWAB President, securing 154 votes, while his opponent Selim Shahed received just 34 votes. Voting was conducted both in-person and online, allowing cricketers residing abroad to participate as well.

Among those who voted in person were Bangladesh’s first Test centurion, former captain, and current BCB director Aminul Islam Bulbul, and former captain Tamim Iqbal, who arrived in traditional white panjabi-pajama attire. Both were seen enjoying the lively and cheerful environment. They also announced plans to contest the BCB director elections in October, and later aim for the presidency.

Speaking to reporters after voting, Tamim Iqbal said, “In my 15–16 years of cricket, I have never seen anything like this. I’m very happy to witness it today. There are many senior cricketers here, some of whom I’m meeting for the first time. The whole event felt like a wonderful carnival. We must maintain this spirit. The challenging work now begins: reforms, elections, a new president… the committee is almost formed. Now it’s time to focus on the tasks ahead.”

Regarding why he did not contest, Tamim added, “You all know the reason I didn’t participate. I hope you understand.”

In the presidential race, Mohammad Mithun defeated Selim Shahed, receiving 154 votes to Shahed’s 34. After his victory, Mithun stated, “I stand for the cricketers. If necessary, I will fight on their behalf, even with the board.”

In the newly elected CWAB committee, there was no post of General Secretary this time. Senior Vice-President is former cricketer Shahriar Hossain Bidyut, and Vice-President is national team wicketkeeper-batsman Nurul Hasan Sohan.

Other executive committee members were elected unopposed: Khaled Masud Pilot, Imrul Kayes, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mehedi Hasan Miraz, Akbar Ali, Rumana Ahmed, Shamsur Rahman Shuvo, and Irfan Sukkur.

Some criticism arose due to the lack of competition for posts other than president. Many believe Selim Shahed ran only to give legitimacy to the election, ensuring the process did not appear one-sided. However, the lively in-person voting largely overshadowed that controversy.

Following the CWAB election, the cricketing community is hopeful, and preparations for the upcoming BCB election are already gaining momentum.