ACUs Strict Measures in BPL Positive, But Process Must Be Followed, Hannan Sarkar

Recently, the CEO of Dhaka Capitals raised allegations against the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU). According to him, ACU has entered players’ rooms and questioned them before they went out to bat. Now, another franchise, Rajshahi Warriors, has spoken up on this matter through their head coach Hannan Sarkar.

While acknowledging ACU’s role as a positive step against corruption, Hannan Sarkar emphasized that the entire process must be carried out according to proper rules. Explaining his stance on ACU’s current activities, Hannan Sarkar said,"To be honest, there are indeed a lot of strict measures this time. I have worked as a manager and as a coach before. When the anti-corruption issue came up earlier, I observed how it was handled, and this time it’s being done a little differently. We are all positive about these strict measures, and I think it should be appreciated. But whatever happens, whatever is done, or whatever is observed must be done within the process and according to the rules."

He also addressed the Dhaka Capitals’ press conference and allegations. While he admitted that he does not know all the details, he stressed that if ACU acts according to its guidelines, there should be no way to bypass the process. Hannan Sarkar stated,"The matter from Dhaka that I saw in yesterday’s press conference—based on what I heard or observed, I cannot comment in detail. But if it is done according to our Anti-Corruption Unit’s guidelines or within their process, there is no way to bypass it."

However, he questioned whether it is appropriate to question players right before they go out to bat. The Rajshahi head coach stressed the importance of following the correct procedure in such situations. Regarding his own team, Hannan Sarkar said,"If the normal procedure is followed, or if they are approached within the process... even if it happens to my team, we will try to cooperate. But if it is done according to the rules, there will be no doubt or confusion."

Hannan Sarkar also acknowledged ACU’s legal authority to search dressing rooms or players’ mobile phones amidst ongoing debates. However, he emphasized that even in such cases, the rules must be followed. He explained,"Certainly, they have the right to search someone’s room or mobile in any way. But there are rules for that too. As far as I know, the manager must be informed beforehand. If they have done so, then no further questions should arise."

Interference during a match or with players in the playing eleven is completely unacceptable in his view. He stressed that any communication must go through the team manager. Clarifying his team’s position, Hannan Sarkar said,"If a player in the playing eleven is about to bat and questions need to be asked, it must be done through the manager. In my team, if this process is not followed, I will definitely not allow such situations to happen."