No conflict of interest, insists Tamim Iqbal on dual club involvement
Tamim's connection with Gulshan Cricket Club came shortly after he was elected president of the Chattogram division's Cricketers' Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB).
Tamim Iqbal's involvement with both Mohammedan Sporting Club and Gulshan Cricket Club has raised questions about a potential conflict of interest.
However, the former Bangladesh captain remains adamant that his dual role does not present any issues.
Since retiring from international cricket, Tamim has been preparing for a new chapter as a cricket organiser while continuing to play domestic cricket. His journey into administration took a significant step forward when he, along with Fortune Barishal owner Mizanur Rahman, invested in Gulshan Cricket Club. Despite his financial involvement, Tamim has maintained that he is not the club's owner, merely a sponsor facilitator.
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Tamim, who will captain Mohammedan in the upcoming Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League, dismissed suggestions of a conflict of interest. He questioned, "What's the problem here? If I get out early against Gulshan, will you think I did it on purpose?"
He further clarified, "I am not the owner of Gulshan Cricket Club. I have only helped secure sponsorship for them. I do not see any conflict of interest here." Tamim urged critics to view the situation positively, noting that without sponsors like him, 15-20 players might not receive their salaries.
Conflict of interest has long been a debated topic in Bangladeshi cricket. Past examples include Khaled Mahmud Sujon, who served as a coach in the Dhaka Premier League and Bangladesh Premier League while also holding a director's position at the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). BCB president Nazmul Hasan Papon's role at Beximco, a company with vested interests in domestic cricket, also drew scrutiny over potential conflicts.
Tamim's connection with Gulshan Cricket Club came shortly after he was elected president of the Chattogram division's Cricketers' Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB). With the new season starting on 4 march at BKSP, Tamim's Mohammedan Sporting Club will play their first match against none other than Gulshan Cricket Club.
The experienced opener hopes his involvement in cricket administration will contribute positively to the game, but his dual roles continue to spark debate.
