Asif Mahmud's Statements on BCB's Future in the Absence of Papon

Following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government, Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan, a key coordinator of the anti-discrimination movement, has been appointed as the interim Minister of Youth and Sports. On Sunday, Asif Mahmud started his first day at the Secretariat and made three significant decisions right away.

The ICC Women's T20 World Cup is scheduled to be held in Bangladesh in October. However, due to the political instability in the country, the tournament is now under threat. The ICC is even considering alternative venues. Despite this, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) remains hopeful. They have already written to the Chief of Army Staff to ensure security. Regarding the Women's T20 World Cup, Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan stated:

"We have already spoken with the BCB. The most important thing is to ensure security. There is work to be done on this front. I will discuss this matter with the Chief Advisor (Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus) today, as he is a sports enthusiast and will surely support us. We will also speak with everyone involved. There are travel bans from some countries that need to be resolved quickly."

Regarding the ongoing work and control of the BCB, Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan commented, "Our current projects need to be completed swiftly. As for the BCB, since it is an autonomous body, we cannot control them. However, we can give and receive advice from them."

Although Nazmul Hasan Papon is no longer the Minister of Youth and Sports, he still holds the position of BCB President. Addressing the situation in Papon's absence, Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan said:

"The BCB President is currently absent. For an organization to function properly, everyone's presence is essential. Given his absence from such an important role, we have consulted with the BCB directors. They will act in accordance with ICC regulations. Additionally, I have asked them to explore whether someone can be appointed for the interim period."