FICA executive chairman responds to Bangladesh boycott

On Monday it was disclosed that players revealed 11 separate demands at a press conference attended by Shakib Al Hasan, as well as other high-profile members of the national setup, including Mahmudllah, Mehidy Hasan, Arafat Sunny and Tamim Iqbal

FICA executive chairman, Tony Irish has released a statement in relation to the situation that cricketers in Bangladesh have announced a boycott of all cricket activity until their demands are met for the improvement of the game in the country.

On Monday it was disclosed that players revealed 11 separate demands at a press conference attended by Shakib Al Hasan, as well as other high-profile members of the national setup, including Mahmudllah, Mehidy Hasan, Arafat Sunny and Tamim Iqbal.

Irish said: "FICA commends the players in Bangladesh for their unity and for taking a stand together in order to secure fair conditions applicable to them as professional cricketers.

"This has happened despite the challenging environment for players to collectivize in Bangladesh and it is a clear indication of the need for change in the way players are treated in what we regard as an important cricket country.

"It is also clear to us that the players in Bangladesh don’t feel heard or respected in relation to important issues that affect them in their careers and that affect their livelihoods.

"It is the role of a players’ association to be the voice, and collective representative, of the players, and it is a matter of concern to us that the Cricketers’ Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB) does not appear to be fulfilling this role at a very critical time for the players. 

"It is of further concern that it appears that office bearers of CWAB hold positions with the Bangladesh Cricket Board.

"Given the collective nature of the issues we believe that it’s important for FICA to offer its support and assistance to the players during this time." 

The measures currently impact the National Cricket League, the domestic first-class competition, but could also threaten the upcoming tour of India, which takes place in November. The two nations are due to meet in three T20Is followed by two Tests.

The players, however, revealed 11 separate demands at a press conference attended by Shakib Al Hasan, as well as other high-profile members of the national setup, including Mahmudllah, Mehidy Hasan, Arafat Sunny and Tamim Iqbal.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board has so far only commented to say that it is awaiting formal details of the complaint.

Nizamudin Chowdhury, chief executive of the Bangladesh Cricket Board, said: “We just came to know about it. "We will discuss it in the board and try to resolve it as soon as possible.

"I don't think it is anything like revolt. They are yet to tell us anything formally, but we are looking into the matter."

Players have also been fierce of their criticism of a new BCB rule which states that a leg-spinner must bowl four overs in every single innings of a BPL match.