Removed as ‘Incompetent,’ Yet Consulted as ‘Indispensable’!

Former Bangladesh captain Faruque Ahmed has been removed from his role as BCB President on grounds of “unsatisfactory performance.” Yet, in a surprising turn, the same man is now being consulted by the Sports Adviser in restructuring the board. This raises the question—was the decision purely administrative, or politically motivated?

The recent leadership shuffle at the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has sparked intense debate. Faruque Ahmed, former president and selector, was ousted with the claim that his performance was not up to the mark. But only weeks later, the very same figure has been sought out for guidance in forming BCB’s new executive committee and shaping its future roadmap. Such contradictory moves not only raise eyebrows but also point toward the political undercurrents within cricket administration.

Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib recently stated at a press briefing that Faruque Ahmed’s work as president was “unsatisfactory,” which led to his removal. The role was then handed over to Aminul Islam Bulbul “in hopes of stronger leadership.”

Yet, within a month, a different picture emerged. Ahead of the upcoming BCB elections in October, Asif Mahmud himself sat down with Faruque Ahmed to discuss the composition of the new board.

Confirming the meeting, the Adviser said he held “open discussions” with Faruque Ahmed on how to shape the new board, including identifying members for technical roles and those for administrative positions.

This stark duality—removal on one hand, consultation on the other—underscores the clash of influence and political maneuvering within the BCB.

Insiders claim Faruque was focusing more on club politics and strengthening his own power base rather than prioritizing cricket, which is why he was removed. Yet, his expertise remains too valuable to be ignored, making him a necessary voice in sensitive decisions like board formation. Essentially, he has been kept at a “safe distance”—stripped of authority, but not of influence.

Rumors also suggest that, being related to Tamim Iqbal, Faruque Ahmed could have led a Tamim-aligned faction within the BCB. To avoid this, he wasn’t retained in the top position. However, cutting ties with him completely was also not an option, given the need for political balance.

It is clear, then, that the leadership reshuffle in the BCB was not merely performance-based, but rather a calculated political move. Those who wish to work independently find their positions weakened, while their experience remains exploited behind the scenes.

Thus, even after being removed as BCB President, Faruque Ahmed continues to remain an indirect influencer within cricket administration. This reflects both the lack of transparency and the prevalence of power struggles at the heart of Bangladesh’s sports governance.