.svg)
Key Takeaways
- 1ā ļø BCB Integrity Unit has launched an investigation into board director Mohammad Mokleshur Rahman over match-fixing allegations in the BPL
- 2š± Phone recordings allegedly reveal conversations between Mokleshur and Noakhali Express chairman about compromising match integrity
- 3š Mokleshur has resigned from the BCB audit committee but retains his position as board director during the investigation
- 4š Alex Marshall, BCB Integrity Unit head, will examine call records, financial trails, and potential breaches of anti-corruption codes
- 5š The investigation may involve ICC anti-corruption regulations, potentially extending beyond domestic jurisdiction
"It has been reported that Mohammad Mokleshur Rahman was involved in fixing matches in the ongoing BPL"
BCB Launches Investigation into Board Director Mohammad Mokleshur Rahman Over BPL Match-Fixing Allegations
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) finds itself embroiled in a significant corruption scandal as its Integrity Unit has commenced an investigation into current board director Mohammad Mokleshur Rahman following serious match-fixing allegations connected to the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).
The Allegations Surface
The controversy erupted on Thursday when journalist Riasat Azim published explosive content on his YouTube channel, releasing several phone conversations allegedly between Mokleshur Rahman and Noakhali Express chairman Towhidul Haque Towhid. The recordings purportedly capture Mokleshur dictating instructions on how matches should be played, directly compromising the integrity of the tournament.
The BPL, Bangladesh's premier franchise-based T20 competition, now faces questions about the legitimacy of its matches as investigators work to determine the extent of any wrongdoing.
Swift Response from BCB
A BCB official confirmed on Friday, January 23, that Alex Marshall, head of the BCB Integrity Unit, has already initiated the investigation. In a notable development, Mokleshur has stepped down from the BCB's audit committee, though he maintains his position as a board director.
"For the sake of a proper investigation, I have resigned from the audit committee and all other responsibilities, but I will remain a director. I want a clean investigation into the matter."
ā Mohammad Mokleshur Rahman, when approached for comment.
Scope of the Investigation
Marshall's inquiry is expected to be comprehensive, encompassing:
- Examination of call records
- Analysis of financial trails
- Assessment of potential breaches of BCB's anti-corruption codes
- Review of possible violations of ICC anti-corruption regulations
Background on the Director
Mohammad Mokleshur Rahman was elected to the BCB board on October 6 of last year, representing the Chapainawabganj district sports association under the Rajshahi District Sports Association. His tenure has now been overshadowed by these serious allegations less than four months into his term.
Previous Concerns About Noakhali Express
This is not the first time fixing allegations have been associated with the Noakhali Express franchise. Previous reports had raised concerns about potential irregularities connected to the team, making the current revelations particularly damaging for the franchise's reputation.
Implications for Bangladesh Cricket
The investigation carries significant implications for Bangladesh cricket's credibility on the international stage. With the ICC's anti-corruption framework potentially being invoked, the matter could extend beyond domestic jurisdiction. The BCB will be under pressure to demonstrate transparency and thoroughness in handling this sensitive case.
Looking Ahead
As the investigation progresses, the cricketing world will be watching closely to see how the BCB navigates this crisis. The outcome could set important precedents for how corruption allegations involving board-level officials are handled in cricket administration globally. The integrity of the BPL and Bangladesh cricket's reputation hangs in the balance as investigators work to uncover the truth behind these serious allegations.
Related Stories
