DCCOA Announces Cricket Boycott Across Dhaka

On Wednesday, cricket organizers based in Dhaka announced a full-scale boycott of all cricket levels. This protest was sparked by the recent Bangladesh Cricket Board elections, from which Aminul Islam emerged as the board’s head. Organizers branded the election process as ‘illegal’.

Entities under the Dhaka Club Cricket Organizers Association (DCCOA), representing numerous leading clubs and districts, dismissed the BCB election’s validity. This election saw Tamim Iqbal withdraw, citing governmental interference.

Mohammedan Sporting Club councilor Masuduzzaman declared, “We do not recognize this election. There’s no room for discussion,”. He termed Bulbul as an illegitimate president, emphasizing non-participation in any league or district cricket forthwith.

He further stated, “If any club faces threats or pressure, we will stand united. Cricket will be paused for the time being,” adding that they currently have 38 clubs backing the protest, with support steadily growing.

Meanwhile, club officials informed Cricbuzz that they have not yet formally notified the Cricket Committee of Dhaka Metropolis (CCDM), a BCB unit responsible for organizing various league levels, of their intended boycott.

Tamim, present at the briefing, shared his skepticism, highlighting that the recently concluded election doesn’t qualify as genuine.

He remarked, “It was laughable that 34 out of 42 club votes were cast electronically, despite voters being physically present at the polling site.”

Joining Tamim and Masuduzzaman in declaring the boycott were Major (retd) Imrose Ahmed, Rafiqul Islam Babu, SM Abdullah Al Fuad Redwan, and other councillors from various clubs and districts.

Recently, Bulbul, now serving a second term as BCB president, expressed intent to engage with cricket stakeholders to resume and promote the game. However, DCCOA leaders turned down his invitation, citing the flawed and manipulated nature of the election process.

“Recognition must precede discussion. We don’t acknowledge the election results; hence, dialogue isn’t possible,” stated Masuduzzaman.

The rescheduling of the Dhaka Third Division Cricket League due to the BCB election introduces further uncertainty. Originally, CCDM intended the Third Division League to start on October 1.

It’s reported that top BCB officials convened a meeting to discuss developments following the clubs and district organizers’ boycott declaration.

In a press release, the Cricket Committee of Dhaka Metropolis (CCDM), responsible for organizing all club-based competitions in Dhaka, reiterated its dedication to conducting scheduled leagues in the domestic 2025-26 calendar.

“CCDM assures players and stakeholders of comprehensive preparations for the Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League, Dhaka First, Second, and Third Division Cricket Leagues, Dhaka First Division T20 League, Dhaka Third Division Qualifying League, and CCDM Challenge Cup as per the calendar timetable,” the statement read.

“Both CCDM and the Bangladesh Cricket Board prioritize the players’ interests and welfare above all else.”