Can the Bangladesh Cricket Board hold their next election on time?

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is facing uncertainty ahead of their next election, following seasoned director Mahbub Anam's decision not to contest. The election is scheduled to take place by October 7, 2025, but several issues need to be addressed before then.

Constitutional Amendment

Many believe the constitution needs to be amended to move the game forward. The BCB attempted this in the past, but the effort failed due to opposition from clubs. Without a constitutional amendment, the election could be tricky, and the interim government's lack of interest in bringing changes could be questioned.

Councilors

The current ad-hoc committees are nominating councilors, but many question how this can be done without elected associations. This could lead to a problem when the election commission is announced, as organizers who failed to make a cut in the divisional and district sports council might challenge the committee's formation in court.

Mahbub Anam

A strong panel inside the BCB supports Mahbub, and they are trying to convince him to reconsider his decision not to run. His followers are now unsure whom to support, and the original plan to get directors elected first and then back Mahbub in the presidential race is in jeopardy.

Decision on 14 Third Division Clubs

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) found no evidence of wrongdoing against former BCB president Faruque Ahmed, but raised concerns about 14 third-division qualifying clubs. The BCB has yet to decide whether to retain these clubs or remove them from the league, which could significantly influence the election.

Aminul Islam as the next president

Some believe the government will attempt to influence the election by reinstating Aminul Islam as president through 13 votes. However, this could be challenged, and another section believes an ad-hoc committee could be appointed to run the board until the national election.

Timeline

The current committee's term is four years from the date of its first meeting, which took place on October 7, 2021. The BCB aims to form the Election Commission by August 25, and the election must take place by October 7, 2025.