Anti-corruption officials raided the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) headquarters in Mirpur this week following growing concerns over alleged match-fixing during the latest Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) season.

The raid comes on the heels of a BCB-initiated investigation into suspicious behaviour during several BPL matches. A three-member independent inquiry committee has been formed to assist the board’s Anti-Corruption Unit. It includes former appellate division judge Mirza Hussain Haider, former national cricketer Shakil Kasem, and international lawyer Dr. Khaled H. Chowdhury.

This is the first time since 2013 that the BPL is facing a formal probe over corruption. The spotlight is currently on ten players—eight local and two foreign—and four teams: Dhaka, Sylhet, Chattogram, and Rajshahi. Sources say investigations are focusing on irregular patterns during matches, including suspect no-balls, unusual batting slumps, and questionable squad selections.

The BCB, in a statement, said it remains committed to preserving the integrity of the game. “We are determined to maintain a clean and transparent cricketing environment. This investigation reflects that commitment,” the board noted.

Newly appointed BCB President Faruque Ahmed also addressed the situation publicly, admitting that corruption and internal irregularities have taken root over the past decade. He said confronting these issues head-on will be key to rebuilding trust in the board and the game.

The investigation is still in its early stages. However, officials close to the probe say findings so far suggest deeper structural problems within franchise operations, including possible links to illegal betting networks.

As cricket remains Bangladesh’s most passionately followed sport, the outcome of this investigation is being closely watched—not just by fans and media, but by players, sponsors, and international cricket bodies alike. (Athlon Sports)

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Chattogram Challengers have roped in Sri Lankan wicket-keeper batter Kusal Mendis for the upcoming Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) season. 

Kusal will play in the jersey of Chattogram in the upcoming season of BPL. Chattogram Challengers confirmed this by posting a post on their Facebook page. 

Kusal has been a regular face in the Sri Lankan national team for a long time. He is also leading the team due to Dasun Shanaka’s injury in the ongoing World Cup. He is famous for his attacking batting in the top order. His record especially against Bangladesh is quite good. Kusal is the hero of Sri Lanka’s multi-match win against Bangladesh.

The players’ draft for the next season of BPL was completed on September 24. Among the old cricketers, Shuvagata Hom, Ziaur Rahman, Nihaduzzaman were retained by Chattogram. Besides, talented cricketers like Shohidul Islam, Al-Amin Hossain, Shahadat Hossain Dipu, Tanzid Hasan Tamim were signed from the draft. Chattogram took Ibrahim Zadran, Mohammad Hasnain, and Mohammad Haris in the direct signing. Kusal Mendis is now the new signing.

All in all, the Chattogram Challengers team is not very starry or strong, but it is not worth throwing away. 

If everything goes well, the next season of BPL will be played in early January 2024 after the national elections. The final match will be held in mid-February. (BD Cric Time)

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