New Delhi: Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal has scripted history by becoming the youngest person to head the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), taking charge at the age of 37 following a decisive victory in the board’s elections.
Tamim, who was appointed interim president earlier this year after the newly elected government dissolved the previous BCB administration over alleged irregularities, has now secured a full mandate to lead the country’s cricketing body. His elevation marks a significant transition from a celebrated playing career to one of the most influential administrative roles in Bangladesh cricket.
The former opener topped the board elections with 73 votes from 75 councillors, emerging as the clear choice among a field of 16 candidates contesting for 12 director positions. During the board’s first meeting after the election, Fahim Sinha, who secured 66 votes, was appointed vice-president.
Speaking after assuming office, Tamim stressed the need for consultation and collective decision-making before introducing any major reforms. He acknowledged that constitutional changes may be required to strengthen Bangladesh cricket but emphasised that such decisions would require broad consensus among the board’s councillors.
The former skipper also admitted that the transition from player to administrator would take time, noting that he is still familiarising himself with many members of the cricketing establishment. He called for patience as the new leadership evaluates areas that require improvement.
Tamim’s appointment comes during a challenging period for Bangladesh cricket. The previous board faced criticism over several decisions, including controversies surrounding the national team’s participation in international tournaments.
One of Bangladesh’s greatest-ever cricketers, Tamim retired from international cricket in 2023 after a distinguished 15-year career. He scored more than 15,000 international runs and remains the only Bangladeshi player to have registered centuries in all three formats of the game.
With strong support from the cricketing community and a mandate for change, Tamim now faces the task of restoring confidence in the administration and guiding Bangladesh cricket into a new era.
