BCB Takes Strong Stand on Chittagong Kings’ Financial Irregularities

Controversy and the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) have almost become synonymous. Each season ends with allegations of irregularities and swirling speculations. The latest dispute centers on Chittagong Kings, whose financial mismanagement has come under the spotlight after failing to clear dues from the first and second editions of the tournament.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) revealed that SQ Sports, the franchise owner, repeatedly failed to settle payments for the 2012 and 2013 seasons. This includes franchise fees, taxes, as well as salaries for players and coaching staff. Since 2013, the board has issued multiple notices and taken legal action over the matter.

Although a settlement agreement was reached on September 20, 2024, BCB claims the franchise has yet to pay a single penny. As a result, the board terminated the agreement on July 22 this year, demanding USD 3,782,156 (approximately BDT 44.5 crore). The amount includes USD 1,550,064 in principal dues and USD 2,232,092 in accumulated interest.

The BCB made it clear there will be no further concessions for repayment. The board also alleged that Chittagong Kings failed to pay players, coaches, hotels, and other service providers even during the 11th edition of the BPL, for which regular complaints continue to be lodged.

BCB confirmed that legal proceedings will continue until all dues are recovered.