Dhaka, Jan 15 (V7N) — The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced the indefinite suspension of the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) following ongoing unrest in the cricketing community.

The decision comes after players refused to withdraw their boycott over the controversial comments made by BCB Director Nazmul Islam. The board had earlier stipulated that cricketers must return to the field by Thursday, January 15, on the condition that Director Nazmul Islam be removed from his post as Chairman of the Finance Committee. Matches scheduled for Thursday, including Rajshahi Warriors vs. Sylhet Titans and Noakhali Express vs. Chittagong Royals, were canceled as a result.

COAB President Mohammad Mithun, representing the cricketers, reiterated that the players would only return to play if Director Nazmul Islam resigned or guaranteed his removal within 48 hours. "We are still adamant on the BCB director's resignation," Mithun said. "We have tried to discuss with the board in various ways. But we definitely want to play if our demands are accepted."

In response, the BCB released a statement confirming that Director Nazmul Islam has been immediately relieved from the post of Finance Committee Chairman, with the BCB President himself assuming the role of acting chairman until further orders. The release emphasized that the board’s highest priority is always to protect the interests of cricketers and maintain the dignity and professionalism of all affiliated players.

The tension arose partly due to disagreements over Bangladesh’s upcoming T20 World Cup tour of India. Earlier, Director Nazmul Islam had sparked controversy by calling former national captain Tamim Iqbal an “Indian broker” on Facebook, which was widely criticized as unacceptable by players and officials alike.

In his controversial remarks, Nazmul Islam had questioned the primacy of players over the board, stating, “Suppose the board does not exist, then will cricket, meaning cricketers, remain or not?” The statements contributed to a standoff between the board and players, culminating in the suspension of the BPL.

The BCB has said that franchises will be formally notified of the suspension later on Thursday night. The future of the league and upcoming national team commitments remain uncertain until the situation is resolved.

END/SMA/AJ