Player selection must be based on merit, not politics: Rizvi

Player selection in sports must be based on merit, not political identity, BNP Senior Joint Secretary General and political adviser to the prime minister Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said today (31 March).

He made the remarks at a meeting with the newly elected board members of Mohammedan Sporting Club.

He said athletes should be evaluated based on talent, skills and performance, not political affiliation.

"Those who have talent, can perform well and are skilled must be given equal opportunities and placed in deserving positions. An athlete should not be judged through a political lens instead of their achievements," he said.

Alleging political interference, Rizvi said the sports sector had suffered over the past 16 to 17 years.

"Believe it or not, a renowned cricketer once contacted me expressing interest in contesting elections from BNP. I advised him not to leave cricket, though I welcomed his interest in politics. Later, he contested from another party and became an MP," he said.

"He was subjected to pressure and harassment in various ways. Attempts were made to erase his international identity and sporting achievements—this should not happen," he added.

Rizvi said athletes representing the country at the international level should not be judged based on political identity.

"Whether a cricketer, footballer or athlete, if they prove themselves internationally, they must be evaluated on merit," he said.

He claimed that under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, an environment is being created where divisions such as "my people" and "their people" will not exist in sports, culture or other sectors, and merit will be the basis for evaluation.

Referring to Mohammedan Sporting Club, Rizvi said its legacy remains deeply rooted among people.

He expressed hope that the club would regain its past glory and strengthen its position in the country's sports arena.