Third Division to be held, Dhaka Premier League must stay on field: Faruque

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) vice-president Faruque Ahmed on Sunday assured that the Third Division Qualifying Tournament will be organised this year as well, urging patience as planning continues.

Responding to a question, Faruque said it was still early in the year, and that there was no reason to panic. “We have just finished January and are only in February. The time has not run out yet.” 

The former Bangladesh player stressed the importance of the tournament, noting that the 60-team Third Division event had remained closed for nearly 12–13 years before being revived last season. 

“When I was president, one of my biggest challenges was to organise this tournament, and it was completed very successfully. This year, we are also planning to do it, though I cannot say the exact timing right now,” the vice-president added.

He also explained that discussions were ongoing, as the BCB president has been busy with several issues, including the T20 World Cup.

“After talking with him, we will try to finalise the schedule.” 

On concerns surrounding the Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League (DPL), the former BCB president reiterated his long-held stance that cricket must remain on the field.

“Who is on the board today and who is not is not the issue. If Bangladesh cricket wants to move forward, boycotting matches will not benefit anyone. It only harms cricket and the cricketers,” the former right-handed batsman said.

He urged players to engage with their respective clubs rather than resort to protests. “Stopping play can never be a form of protest. Once a season passes, you cannot get it back,” the 59-year-old warned, expressing hope that teams would take part in upcoming tournaments under the BCB and Cricket Committee of Dhaka Metropolis.