BCB Integrity Unit defends procedures after franchises voice concerns

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) Integrity Unit (IU) has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy against corruption on Sunday, stating that all integrity-related activities during the ongoing Bashundhara Cement Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) are being conducted strictly in line with the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) global anti-corruption framework.

Dhaka Capitals CEO Atik Fahad on Friday publicly expressed frustration over what he described as unprofessional conduct by the BCB IU during the ongoing BPL, even raising doubts about his franchise’s future participation in the league.

Addressing a press conference, Fahad said the IU’s actions had created mental pressure on management and players, negatively affecting motivation and on-field performance. “If the management is not content mentally, if my players are not content, what better result can we expect?” he questioned.

He also cited an incident involving Afghanistan wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz, alleging that IU officials entered the player’s hotel room early in the morning without prior appointment or informing the franchise management, leaving the foreign cricketer confused.

Similar dissatisfaction has also emerged from newly introduced franchise Noakhali Express. Daily Sun reported earlier that several of their players and coaching staff were summoned by the IU; making Noakhali the second team after Dhaka to express displeasure over the unit’s working approach during the tournament.

In response to growing criticism, the BCB IU reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy against corruption. It stated that all integrity-related activities during the BPL are conducted in strict accordance with the ICC’s global anti-corruption framework.

In an official media release, the BCB IU, headed by its Independent Chair Alex Marshall, stressed that its actions fully comply with the ICC Anti-Corruption Code and that no player or franchise personnel’s rights have been violated. The release also claimed that preventive measures have resulted in an estimated 80% reduction in alerts related to suspicious activities.

Marshall further noted that routine integrity operations are being carried out following credible suspicions and remain standard preventive procedures aimed at safeguarding the credibility of the league.