BCB confirms election schedule and approves IMG as BPL partner

Following a board meeting held earlier today, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has confirmed that its next board election will take place in the first week of October. While the exact date will be finalised by the Election Commission, BCB Director Nazmul Abedeen Fahim stated that preparations are underway.

"One of the most significant decisions taken today was regarding the upcoming BCB election. It will be held in the first week of October. The specific date will be confirmed through the Election Commission."

The Election Commission has not yet been formally constituted. Fahim clarified that:

"The Election Commission has not yet been formed by name. The authority has been entrusted to the President to recommend names. A three-member Election Commission will be formed, and I believe we'll know about it within the next couple of days."

Addressing concerns around impartiality, particularly as the President is expected to contest the election, Fahim said:

"Though the President will recommend names, he will do so in consultation with board members. There is a clear guideline on how the Commission should be formed, including the backgrounds from which members must be selected."

He also reaffirmed BCB's commitment to constitutional integrity in all election-related matters:

"The Constitution provides direction on this matter, and we intend to strictly follow it. It is mandatory to do so."

In another major decision, the board approved IMG, a leading global sports marketing consultancy, as the official partner for the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). The contract is for three years.

"IMG is one of the leading marketing firms globally. We are aware of the current state of the BPL, and this partnership is a major step towards restoring its standard. We hope IMG will play a pivotal role in elevating the BPL's organisation and image."

In relation to governance and transparency, Fahim addressed developments around BPL investigations. A three-member fact-finding committee has submitted its report. A new four-member review committee, consisting primarily of legal experts, will now assess the findings and advise BCB on the next steps.

"The review team will assess the recommendations and determine BCB's next course of action. Their report is due by 7th September."

Regarding the Dhaka Premier League (DPL), Fahim confirmed the receipt of a report from the Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU), though it was not tabled in the day's discussions:

"Yes, a report on the DPL has been received. However, it was not discussed in today's meeting. Due to the complexity and involvement of multiple factors, no immediate decision was made. But it is under consideration, and I hope you will hear more soon."

The meeting concluded with several other smaller items on the agenda, but the above topics were the primary focus, according to Fahim.