Monjurul Islam banned by Bangladesh Cricket Board amid serious allegations

The Bangladesh Cricket Board has imposed a ban on former cricketer Monjurul Islam from all forms of direct or indirect involvement in cricket activities under its jurisdiction. The decision follows serious allegations of misconduct raised by former Bangladesh women’s captain Jahanara Alam.

The controversy dates back to the 2022 Women’s ODI World Cup, during which Monjurul was serving as selector and manager of the Bangladesh women’s team. Alam lodged an official complaint accusing him of sexual assault and inappropriate behaviour. In response, the BCB formed an Independent Inquiry Committee to investigate the matter. The committee, led by Justice Tariq Ul Hakim and comprising legal and board representatives, submitted its findings after months of examination.

The inquiry reviewed four specific allegations. While two could not be substantiated due to a lack of sufficient evidence, the committee found prima facie evidence supporting the remaining two. It concluded that Monjurul’s conduct was inconsistent with professional standards and that certain actions fell within the definition of misconduct and harassment under applicable Supreme Court guidelines. His contractual tenure with the BCB had already ended on June 30, 2025, but the board decided that further action was necessary.

Following a board meeting at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, the BCB formally announced the ban. In its statement, the board confirmed that Monjurul Islam would be prohibited from any employment or cricket-related role under its authority. The BCB also stated that it is reviewing the committee’s recommendations and may take additional measures if required.

The development has triggered conversations around governance and accountability within Bangladesh cricket, especially in the women’s setup. The board had earlier faced criticism for its handling of internal matters, and this decisive action signals an attempt to address allegations transparently. The inquiry process, though extended multiple times, reflects the board’s effort to follow due procedure before arriving at its conclusion.

Amid the controversy, the BCB also approved the schedule for the inaugural Women’s Bangladesh Premier League, set to be held from April 4 to 14, 2026, in Dhaka and Chattogram. Additionally, the board extended the tenure of national selection panel chairman Gazi Ashraf Hossain by one month as it searches for his successor.