SAMSUL AREFIN KHAN

A starkly contrasting scene unfolded at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur yesterday, on the eve of the Dhaka First Division Cricket League 2025–26 curtain-raiser.

While representative cricketers from 12 confirmed clubs attended a trophy-unveiling photo session near the National Cricket Academy, as many as 50–60 players from eight absentee clubs and beyond staged a human-chain protest at Gate 2, citing Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) election rigging and other disputes which led to the conflict between the BCB and 44 Dhaka-based rebel clubs from various leagues.

It was a disheartening sight for players who rely on the league for both competition and livelihood. Zakaria Masud, who played last season for Amber Sporting Club, called it unprecedented.

“I have been playing in the Dhaka League since 2005. In all these years, including stints in the Premier League and First-Class cricket, I have never faced such a situation,” Zakaria told The Daily Star.

“They are unveiling the trophy over there while we, who cannot play, are standing here. This is truly a sad sight for every player. It’s not just about the 8–10 teams; nearly 700–800 players are affected.”

He continued, “If we have to repeatedly protest just to play, cricket in our country will never progress. We seek talented players, but our structure is flawed. Everyone claims they want the good of cricket, but the reality seems different.

“If the board truly cared about cricket, they would allow the game to continue without disruption.”

At the trophy ceremony, participating players expressed relief but also lamented the absence of colleagues. Sheikh Antor of Tri State Cricketers -- formerly Dhaka Titans -- said they felt “sad that many brothers cannot play this year.”

Following the protest, a delegation met BCB officials, including directors Nazmul Abedeen Fahim, Iftekhar Rahman Mithu, Abul Bashar, and CEO Nizam Uddin Chowdhury. Players handed over a letter to the CEO requesting uninterrupted participation, protection of professional interests, and clarification on league operations.

Asaduzzaman Prince of Khelaghar SKS, whose team is not participating, outlined four demands: a fixed schedule, prompt resolution of disputes, a stable professional structure, and increased match fees and daily allowances. He added that players also sought clear guidelines on payments and called for either a full 20-team league or a franchise-based tournament.

“Their (BCB officials’) response was that the president is currently outside the country, and so they are not able to make an instant commitment about what support they can provide,” said Prince, further informing that the board is willing to proceed with the 12 participating teams but promised to explore franchise options for the remaining eight clubs.

The Cricket Committee of Dhaka Metropolis chairman Adnan Rahman Dipon expressed hope that absent clubs might join. He said he would wait until the following day, noting no communication from the rebel clubs.

As the league opens, uncertainty lingers. The main losers remain the players, and by extension, Bangladesh cricket, as board-club disputes show little sign of resolution.