Tamim plans to name stadium stands after former players

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Tamim Iqbal has hinted at a new initiative to honor former cricketers in Bangladesh. After taking charge, he had already introduced “captaincy cards” for former national team captains, and now he has revealed plans to name stadium gallery stands after former players and organizers—an initiative that could open a new chapter in preserving the country’s cricketing history.

Speaking to the media in Mirpur on Tuesday, Tamim Iqbal shared his vision as the BCB President. While explaining the ongoing idea of naming different stadium stands after former cricketers to recognize their contributions, he said, ‘Former cricketers should have stadium stands named after them. However, we have to be very careful about whom we are honoring with these names. Because if we name one person, another might feel hurt. Perhaps whenever we name someone, there will always be someone who raises an objection. So we are planning how to approach this properly.’

Highlighting the importance of maintaining balance and setting proper criteria in this process, the BCB President also raised questions about how to evaluate contributions from players across regions, national stars, and organizers. He further said, ‘Should I name stands only after players from my own city, or should national-level players be recognized in the national stadium? There are also some organizers who have made huge contributions to Bangladesh cricket; they also deserve recognition. I am planning this matter. I am not sure if I can complete it within the tenure of this ad hoc committee, but if I get elected in the future, I hope to accomplish it.’

Tamim also made it clear that he does not want to judge or diminish former cricketers based solely on statistics. Urging everyone to view past performances in the context of their time, he said, ‘There is no condition that someone must have a batting average of 50. Those who played in our time—even if their average was 10, that contribution of 10 runs was significant at that time.’

Reinforcing the idea that contributions should be valued beyond numbers, the BCB President emphasized respect for all roles played in Bangladesh cricket. He added, ‘Regardless of statistics or anything else, it is our responsibility to honor everyone for the roles they have played. With great wisdom and consideration, I want to ensure that the right names are given to the right places, and Inshallah, I want to complete this work before I leave.’