Fixing Controversy in BPL Prompts BCB’s Strict Monitoring of NCL

Controversy has arisen over the possible return of certain cricketers accused of corruption in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). In response, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has launched strict monitoring measures around the upcoming National Cricket League (NCL), adopting a “zero tolerance” policy to ensure player ethics, accountability, and anti-corruption awareness.

The question of whether players accused of corruption in the BPL will be allowed to participate in the NCL remains undecided. To address the issue, the BCB has formed a special committee tasked with submitting recommendations within this week.

Following a board meeting in Sylhet on Monday, BCB director Nazmul Abedin Fahim said:
"I cannot disclose details openly at this point… They have to give their advice by the 7th, after which the board may take a decision."

He further explained:
"This committee’s role is not investigation but recommendation. If someone’s name is involved, we cannot yet say they are convicted. When it comes to integrity, there is no room for compromise. We are not taking shortcuts, and if necessary, we will bring in international experts."

The BCB clarified that the committee will only provide advice at this stage, not conduct investigations. If anyone is later proven guilty, legal processes involving investigation and tribunal hearings will follow.

During a visit to Sylhet District Stadium on Tuesday, BCB president Aminul Islam Bulbul stressed the importance of protecting cricket:
"We must safeguard the game of cricket. Our charter’s first objective is to ensure cricket is preserved through everyone’s participation. For the NCL, every player will first attend a class on the translated anti-corruption code of conduct. After that, they will sign a form before being allowed to play."

According to the BCB president, this system will not only be implemented in the NCL but also across all tournaments funded by the board.

"From October, Dhaka’s Third Division League will begin. We want every tournament under BCB funding to follow the same rule: players must learn the anti-corruption code, understand it, and sign before playing. The process will start with the NCL T20."

Bulbul also emphasized that protecting cricket from the shadow of corruption requires more than just the players, coaches, and umpires — it demands awareness across society. While the BCB can more easily train those under its direct control, raising awareness among fans and the general public requires active support from the media.

"We are campaigning against corruption. Through electronic, print, and digital media, we will spread the message that the game must be protected. Awareness must extend beyond players, coaches, and umpires — society as a whole needs to understand. We will highlight ethical, religious, and legal values. We expect journalists to help us protect the game as well."

To this end, the BCB is set to launch a nationwide awareness campaign to promote anti-corruption messages and cricket’s core ethical values through various platforms.