‘No overnight 360-degree transformation, but a start’

Since assuming responsibility as president of the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) ad hoc committee on April 7, Tamim Iqbal had attended two previous press conferences without taking questions. On Thursday, however, he finally engaged directly with journalists in a full question-and-answer session following his opening remarks.

During the briefing, Tamim outlined a wide range of development plans for Bangladesh cricket, spanning stadium infrastructure, domestic competition structure, grassroots expansion and administrative reforms. BCB ad hoc committee member Fahim Sinha was also present during the press conference.

Tamim made it clear that the initiatives being introduced are part of a gradual process rather than immediate transformation. “I’ll say it again -- we’re not doing anything that will completely transform Bangladesh cricket 360 degrees overnight, but this is a start,” he said.

TAMIM’S PRESSER: KEY TAKEAWAYS

Stadium upgrade planned: Proposal to install a 27,000 square feet canopy at Mirpur’s Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium to improve spectator comfort.

Solar initiative: The BCB is conducting surveys to install solar panels on stadium rooftops to reduce electricity costs and promote environmental sustainability.

Tiered structure: A new second-tier, three-day competition under the National Cricket League (NCL) is proposed. This new setup aims to provide a platform for 150–200 additional players. “We’ve never created a proper platform for them (second and third division cricketers). This is why it’s rare for players from lower divisions to reach the national team.”

Home-and-away push: Aim to revive matches outside major centres to broaden reach and engagement. “If there is a ground in Khulna and it’s suitable, why shouldn’t we play there? Same for Barishal and Rajshahi.”

Academy partnerships: The board will rent and invest in club and private academy facilities to host age-group (U-15, U-17) camps and domestic matches.

Election timeline: Process expected to begin May 3, with elections likely within 30–45 days.

Presidential ambition: Tamim confirmed he will strictly follow the constitution and intends to run for the BCB presidency in the upcoming election.

Constitutional limits: Ad hoc committee will not amend the constitution; such decisions left to an elected board.

Improving global ties: Emphasis on strengthening ties with the ICC and BCCI to secure better bilateral series and high-profile tours for Bangladesh.

On Shakib: Discussion on Shakib Al Hasan’s potential return extended to include other former captains -- Mashrafe Bin Mortaza and Naimur Rahman Durjoy -- with openness to future roles if legal issues are cleared. “All three former captains are in similar situations… we should not only talk about one.”