Faruq Ahmed May Step Down as BCB President Amid Government Pressure; ICC Sanction Concerns Loom

The future of Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Faruq Ahmed remains uncertain as mounting government pressure pushes for a leadership change — but any direct removal could risk sanctions from the International Cricket Council (ICC).

According to multiple sources, Faruq has been asked to step down by Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan, the Adviser to the Ministry of Youth and Sports under the interim government. Faruq met the adviser at his residence recently, where he was informed that the government no longer wants him to continue in his role at BCB. However, no formal resignation has been submitted yet, as Faruq requested a few days to make a final decision.

The situation has taken a delicate turn due to ICC regulations, which strictly prohibit government interference in the functioning of national cricket boards. Any attempt by the government to unilaterally remove Faruq could potentially lead to Bangladesh facing the same consequences as Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, who were previously suspended by the ICC for similar infractions.

“The adviser didn’t ask me to resign, but he did say they don’t want me to continue,” said Faruq, acknowledging the meeting but stopping short of confirming any immediate decision.

If Faruq resigns voluntarily, the ICC is unlikely to intervene. However, if the government forces a leadership change, the integrity of the board's autonomy could come into question, triggering possible disciplinary action from cricket’s global governing body.

Faruq Ahmed currently holds the BCB presidency through his nomination as a National Sports Council (NSC) councillor. While the government cannot directly remove him from his BCB post, the NSC could strip him of his councillorship — a move that would make him ineligible to serve on the board.

Adding to the intrigue, rumors are swirling that former Bangladesh captain and the country’s first Test centurion, Aminul Islam Bulbul, is being considered as a potential replacement for Faruq.

The current BCB chief’s term runs until October, and he had previously expressed his intent to seek re-election. However, this latest development may prompt him to step down earlier to avoid controversy and protect Bangladesh cricket from international embarrassment.

As stakeholders watch closely, the fate of Bangladesh cricket leadership now hinges on Faruq’s decision in the coming days — a decision that could have far-reaching consequences both domestically and internationally.