BCB President thanks BTV as board battles tough times

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is currently facing a series of setbacks, both administratively and on the field, as it grapples with financial challenges, a lack of media interest, and ongoing investigations. Amid this difficult period, BCB President Faruque Ahmed has expressed gratitude to Bangladesh Television (BTV) for stepping in to broadcast the upcoming Test series against Zimbabwe after no private broadcasters showed interest.

The board had invited bids for the media rights of the two-match Test series on 19 March, with the submission deadline set for 7 April. However, no proposals were received. Despite engaging in discussions with various broadcasters afterwards, none agreed to take on the rights. With limited options, the BCB turned to the state-owned BTV, which agreed to air the first Test beginning on 20 April in Sylhet. Notably, BTV has chosen to broadcast the match free of charge—an unusual move, considering airtime on the channel typically needs to be purchased.

Speaking at an event in Dhaka on Saturday, Faruque said, "We are going through a financially stagnant phase in both domestic and international cricket. Following the recent change in government, it is taking time for things to stabilise. BTV showing the match is a big help. Securing a slot on BTV is no small feat, and we are truly thankful. At least now, the match will reach the people." He extended a special thanks to the relevant officials who facilitated the arrangement, noting that the board had reached out directly for assistance.

The BCB President also mentioned that discussions are ongoing with a private television channel in the hope of airing the second Test if the first cannot be accommodated. He added that preparations are already underway to issue an international tender for selling media rights for the next two and a half years, with proposals to be invited from global companies.

At the same time, the BCB has come under scrutiny from the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), whose officials visited the board's office earlier this week to pursue an ongoing inquiry. President Faruque, who had just returned to the country the night of the visit, assured reporters that the board will extend its full cooperation. "I believe the ACC came based on a specific complaint," he said. "I've instructed our CEO to provide any documents or records requested. He has already begun working on it. We want the investigation to proceed unhindered, and we are committed to transparency throughout the process."

These developments come at a time when Bangladesh cricket is also struggling on the field. The national women's team recently suffered a crushing seven-wicket defeat to Pakistan in Lahore during their final match of the ICC Women's World Cup Qualifiers. That loss, combined with an earlier defeat to the West Indies, has put their qualification hopes at serious risk. Although the team had made a strong start with three consecutive wins, the back-to-back defeats have left them dependent on other results. With the West Indies dominating their final group-stage match against Thailand, Bangladesh's World Cup hopes now rest on net run-rate and the final outcome of that fixture.