Reasons Why Tamim Iqbal Cannot Become BCB President
Tamim Iqbal, a household name in Bangladeshi cricket, has been a topic of intense discussion recently. The buzz around the Chittagong-born cricketer has grown since the political changes in the country, with rumors swirling that he might join the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and even aim for its top position. Former BCB President Faruque Ahmed had hinted at Tamim’s potential involvement, but the path to the presidency is fraught with challenges. Here’s why Tamim may not easily ascend to the BCB’s top post.
Complex Path to the Presidency
The BCB presidency is not simply open to a former star cricketer, no matter how celebrated. It is an elected position that requires navigating multiple stages. First, Tamim would need to become a member of the BCB’s general body or a director, elected by representatives from various sports organizations, district sports bodies, clubs, or divisions. Tamim has already associated himself with two clubs and is actively funding them, earning him early credibility. However, the journey to the presidency remains a steep climb.
The BCB’s directors elect the president through an internal vote, but the process is heavily influenced by government and political circles. Historically, most BCB presidents have been politically powerful figures. For instance, Nazmul Hassan Papon, who served nearly three terms, along with predecessors AHM Mustafa Kamal and Saber Hossain Chowdhury, were all linked to the Awami League. Their control over the BCB was backed by government support. Current President Aminul Islam Bulbul, the country’s first Test centurion, also assumed the role with the interim government’s approval and reportedly takes guidance from Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan, directly or indirectly.
Political Hurdles
Tamim faces two primary paths, both intertwined with politics. First, he could gain the trust of the interim government to secure the presidency. However, this position could be temporary, as a new elected government might force him to relinquish the role. Alternatively, he could negotiate with the political party likely to assume power next, but this is uncertain, as the political landscape remains unpredictable. Aligning with the right political faction is critical, and without it, Tamim’s aspirations could falter, regardless of his cricketing stature.
BCB Rules and BPL Complications
BCB regulations pose another barrier. If Tamim becomes a BCB director, he would be ineligible to play cricket, including in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). As the driving force behind Fortune Barishal, his team would need a new captain, complicating his transition to administration. Tamim’s popularity, experience, and contributions to Bangladeshi cricket make him a strong candidate, but the BCB’s rules and political dynamics create significant obstacles.
Ongoing Speculation and Upcoming Decisions
Tamim’s retirement from international cricket in January 2025, after a dramatic saga of retiring and unretiring in 2023, has kept him in the spotlight. His announcement to contest the BCB elections, confirmed on August 31, 2025, has fueled speculation, though he remains ambiguous about targeting the presidency directly. The upcoming BCB board meeting on Monday, August 1, 2025, could clarify his path forward.
While Tamim’s cricketing legacy—15,249 international runs, 25 centuries, and being the first Bangladeshi to score a T20I century—makes him a compelling figure, the BCB presidency demands political maneuvering and adherence to complex regulations. Whether Tamim remains a hero on the field or emerges as a leader in cricket administration depends on navigating these challenges. Time, and the board meeting, will tell.
