DHAKA — Ishtiaque Sadeque has resigned from his position as a director of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), stepping down on the same day Bangladesh was officially excluded from the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
The resignation comes amid controversy surrounding Bangladesh’s removal from the tournament after the BCB declined to send the national team to India, citing security concerns. The International Cricket Council subsequently confirmed Scotland as Bangladesh’s replacement for the event, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Speaking to Cricbuzz, Ishtiaque Sadeque confirmed that his resignation was voluntary and unrelated to the World Cup decision or internal disputes within the board.
“It is true that I am resigning,” Sadeque said. “Due to family and personal commitments, I am unable to devote the time required for such a large responsibility, particularly in Game Development. I feel I am not doing justice to the role, and that is why I have decided to step down.”
Sadeque, who also served as chairman of the BCB’s Development Committee, is regarded as one of the closest associates of BCB chairman Aminul Islam Bulbul.
Denies internal conflict
Addressing speculation surrounding his departure, Sadeque firmly rejected suggestions that his resignation was triggered by disagreements or internal tensions.
“Claims that I am leaving due to misunderstandings, strained relationships, or personal grievances are completely false,” he said. “Everyone I worked with gave their best effort in their respective roles.”
He added that his commitment to the development of Bangladesh cricket remains unchanged, even after stepping away from the board.
“I am confident that whoever takes over Game Development will be able to move Bangladesh cricket forward. They have my full support, even though I will no longer be part of the board.”
Uncertainty ahead for BCB
Sadeque’s exit adds to a turbulent period for the BCB following Bangladesh’s exclusion from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, a decision that has sparked debate across the cricketing world.
It remains unclear whether his resignation will prompt further changes within the board, as questions continue to swirl around Bangladesh’s future participation in major ICC events and the broader direction of the country’s cricket administration.
For now, the BCB has not indicated whether additional resignations are expected or how Sadeque’s responsibilities will be reassigned.