Bangladesh ODI captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz has strongly criticised Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) finance committee chairman Najmul Islam over his recent remarks on players’ earnings and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Speaking to reporters in Dhaka on Wednesday (January 14), Najmul claimed that the BCB would not suffer any financial loss if Bangladesh withdrew from the T20 World Cup, but the players would, as they would miss out on match fees. He further stirred controversy by saying that the board would not compensate players for this loss, arguing that players are not asked to return money when they underperform.
The comments triggered widespread backlash in Bangladesh cricket circles. Najmul was removed from his role as finance committee chairman by the BCB on Thursday evening.
Reacting to the remarks, Mehidy said the statements had left the team “deeply disappointed.” Addressing the media at a press conference in Dhaka on Thursday, the all-rounder said, “We always consider the board as our guardian. When such comments come from them, it is deeply disappointing for us.”
Mehidy stressed that the board’s financial strength is built on the players’ performances. “The money the board has today comes from matches played in the Bangladesh jersey. It is earned through the hard work of the players, and everyone has a rightful share in it,” he said.
He further added that the board’s standing depends on players participating in international cricket. “We play ICC tournaments, and that is why revenue comes in. If cricket does not happen, there will be no sponsors and no ICC income. The board stands where it does today because players go out and play,” Mehidy said.
