A stunning turn of events unfolded on the eve of the 12th BPL players’ auction when the Bangladesh Cricket Board announced the exclusion of seven local cricketers over alleged fixing-related concerns. The decision came out of nowhere — abrupt, unexplained, and deeply controversial — prompting widespread debate about transparency in Bangladesh cricket.
The decision was influenced by the recommendations of Alex Marshall, head of the BCB Integrity Unit, following a months-long investigation into the 11th BPL season. A confidential report from the board’s inquiry committee identified individuals whose activities were deemed suspicious enough to warrant a “red-flag.”
This internal list was never made public, yet its impact has been seismic. The exclusions include two prominent national team cricketers, Anamul Haque Bijoy and Mosaddek Hossain — both placed in Category C in the original draft.
Reports indicate that franchises were initially sent a draft list containing their names on November 26, but BCB later issued a revised list omitting them entirely. The abrupt nature of the decision has left several players in disbelief and frustration.
Bijoy, speaking to reporters, expressed anger at the complete lack of communication from the board.
“Why was I excluded? No one answered my calls. No notice, no explanation. If they won’t show any evidence, I will legally challenge this,” he warned.
Mosaddek, too, was reportedly blindsided and remains unclear about the allegations behind his removal.
The board stated in its official release that, based on the Integrity Unit’s advice, certain individuals were “not invited” to the tournament. However, the statement did not specify what made them ineligible besides being flagged by the committee.
Observers argue that the lack of transparency could damage the reputation of players who might have no wrongdoing proven against them. A growing section of the cricketing fraternity has demanded clearer explanations and an opportunity for the players to defend themselves.
But BPL Governing Council member Mithu remains firm.
“We established a system. Injured players will not be listed, and neither will flagged players. This is our authority,” he said.
He also highlighted that players believe they were unfairly listed may appeal, although critics question the effectiveness and clarity of that appeal process.
The controversy gained more traction due to the timing — just 24 hours before the auction — leaving the affected players with no chance to find alternatives or clear their names in advance.
To manage the sudden void, BCB added several domestic performers to the final list, including emerging talents such as Tawfique Khan Tushar and Nuhayel Sandeed.
This dramatic episode roots back to a three-member committee formed in February to review operational flaws in the previous BPL season. After nine months, the committee produced an extensive 900-page report outlining their findings, triggering today’s major disciplinary action.
As public debate intensifies, one question looms large:
Are these exclusions a bold step toward a corruption-free league — or has the board set a dangerous precedent of “punishment before proof”?
The players, fans, and franchises wait anxiously for clarity.