BCB launches major review of cricket pathway, plans eight regional hubs

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has initiated a major review of the country's cricket pathway structure. The aim is to strengthen grassroots development, age-group cricket, and the long-term progression of players and coaches.

The decision was announced following a comprehensive discussion chaired by BCB president Aminul Islam.

Among the key proposals discussed was the introduction of a National Cricket Academy programme for Under-23 players as part of the broader pathway framework.

In a statement, the BCB said the meeting reviewed the existing structure of grassroots and age-group cricket, with particular emphasis on revisiting the age-group selection process and evaluating current age verification procedures.

Other major points included:

• A proposal for an incentive system for coaches who successfully develop players.
• The importance of establishing a comprehensive player database for all domestic competition participants.
• Discussions on the salary structure for divisional and district coaches.
• The need for a clear career pathway for coaches.
• An agreement to form a Curriculum Review Committee to update coaches' training and education curriculum.

Plans for Eight Cricket Hubs

The BCB also announced plans to launch eight cricket hubs across the country, with 137 wickets to be prepared in the first phase.

The hubs will be located in:

• Khulna (15 wickets)
• Barishal (23 wickets)
• Fatullah (13 wickets)
• Cox's Bazar (8 wickets)
• Bogura (10 wickets)
• Rajshahi (12 wickets)
• BKSP (19 wickets)
• Purbachal (13 wickets)

The wickets, covering practice, match, and outer grounds, are expected to be ready by May-June. BCB officials stated this would make organizing district leagues much easier from next season.

BCB director Abdur Razzak said, "From a cricketing perspective, this is a massive initiative. If we can finish the work by June, leagues outside Dhaka could be organized very smoothly from next season."