The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) was forced into swift action on Thursday (January 15) after a major internal backlash led to the removal of Najmul Islam from his role as chairman of the board’s finance committee. The decision followed strong resistance from senior Bangladesh players and the Cricket Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB) over Najmul’s controversial and derogatory remarks directed at national cricketers.

The controversy erupted when Najmul, while reiterating Bangladesh’s stance on not travelling to India for the T20 World Cup 2026, dismissed concerns related to players’ remuneration. He publicly stated that players did not deserve compensation if Bangladesh withdrew, arguing that they had failed to justify the financial backing because the team had not won an ICC tournament. His comments triggered widespread outrage within the cricketing fraternity and were viewed as disrespectful to players who have represented the country over the years.

With pressure mounting from senior players, CWAB, and fans alike, the BCB stepped in to contain the fallout. In an official statement released on Thursday evening, the board confirmed Najmul’s removal from the finance committee with immediate effect.

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“The Bangladesh Cricket Board wishes to inform that, following a review of recent developments and in the best interest of the organisation, the BCB President has decided to release Mr. Najmul Islam from his responsibilities as Chairman of the Finance Committee,” the statement read. The BCB President will now serve as the acting chairman of the finance committee until further notice.

The board further clarified that protecting the dignity and interests of cricketers remains a top priority. Earlier in the day, the BCB had already issued a show-cause notice to Najmul, initiating formal disciplinary proceedings and asking him to submit a written explanation within 48 hours.

In a separate press release, the BCB expressed regret over the objectionable remarks made by one of its members and reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, respect, and values that safeguard the spirit of the game.

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Najmul had also courted controversy earlier by labelling former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal an “agent of India” after Tamim urged restraint in handling the sensitive standoff with India, warning that short-term decisions could have long-term consequences. That remark was strongly condemned by CWAB, further intensifying calls for Najmul’s removal.

The episode has highlighted growing tensions between administrators and players, with the BCB now under pressure to rebuild trust and restore stability within Bangladesh cricket.