Formal process underway for Mashrafe’s possible BCB return

Former Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza could still assume a role with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), with vice-president Faruque Ahmed indicating that the door remains open despite ongoing questions over off-field matters.

Faruque made the remarks after an Independence Day exhibition match at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur on Thursday.

On Mashrafe’s potential involvement, Faruque said he was unsure if any legal complications exist but stressed that the former skipper’s contribution to Bangladesh cricket is unquestionable.

“I am not certain about Mashrafe’s situation — whether there are any legal issues or not. But everyone knows what he has done for Bangladesh cricket as a captain,” he said.

Mashrafe, who later entered politics and was twice elected as a Member of Parliament for the Awami League, has largely stayed out of the public eye since the July uprising in 2024.

Faruque emphasised that past achievements cannot be overshadowed by criticism.

“Many things can be said about me, both positive and negative. But the fact that I was Bangladesh captain, chief selector and BCB president cannot be denied,” he noted.

“Whatever is said about Mashrafe, there is no way to deny his contribution to the national team. During his time as captain, the team’s achievements and its rise to the current position owed a lot to his leadership,” he added.

Daily Sun sources added that the BCB has formally initiated a process to explore Mashrafe’s involvement, as the board works on multiple fronts to resolve any complications surrounding him.