BCB president addresses non-payment concerns in BPL, assures players of support

Bangladesh Cricket Board president Faruque Ahmed expressed hope that players would receive their payments from the franchises participating in the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League.

As per the rules, franchises are required to pay 50 per cent of the players' fees before the tournament begins, 25 per cent during the tournament, and the remaining 25 per cent upon its conclusion. However, despite all seven teams having played at least one match, reports indicate that players have yet to receive any payments from the franchises.

"This does not mean the players will not get their payments. We have taken various steps with the franchises. I have personally spoken with them as the board president to emphasise that we are partners. They are also investing in Bangladesh cricket," Faruque told reporters in Mirpur on Wednesday morning, in response to questions regarding the non-payment issue.

The BCB president urged everyone to consider the franchises' perspective, citing the challenging times they may be facing.

"We have been in communication with the BPL franchise owners from Day 1, and we have made it clear that they must pay the money," the BCB president said. "If you ask me for a black-and-white explanation as to why this hasn't happened (franchises failing to pay guarantee money), I cannot provide a definitive answer. You need to view the overall situation from everyone's perspective over the last four months."

Under the rules, the BCB retains a bank guarantee from franchises to ensure that players are paid, even if a franchise fails to do so. In the past, the BCB has stepped in to settle unpaid dues for players. However, with no guarantee money secured this time, the players' payments could be at risk if a franchise is unable to fulfil its financial obligations.