Bijoy denies having travel ban due to match fixing, plans to take legal action

Anamul Haque Bijoy has strongly denied allegations of match-fixing and reports of a travel ban, stating he has not been informed of any restrictions and intends to take legal action to defend his reputation.

The Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) has been marred by controversy, with discussions focused more on off-field issues than the cricket itself. In addition to concerns over unpaid player salaries, match-fixing suspicions have gained traction due to questionable on-field actions, such as exaggerated wide deliveries and conspicuous no-balls. These incidents have led the Bangladesh Cricket Board's (BCB) Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) to launch an investigation, reportedly placing 10–12 local players and several foreign cricketers under scrutiny.

Among those named in the media is Durbar Rajshahi opener Bijoy, with reports claiming he has been barred from leaving the country.

However, Bijoy told The Business Standard he was unaware of any such restriction and had not received any official communication regarding the matter.

"I am shocked and stunned by these accusations. I have played cricket with integrity for years, and this is deeply distressing. No one has informed me of any travel ban, and I will take legal steps to clear my name," Bijoy stated.

Dismissing the allegations as entirely false, he added, "Lies remain lies. I have always played with honesty and upheld ethical values. After all these years of hard work and dedication, hearing such accusations is incredibly painful."

BCB's official statement

Amid growing media speculation, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has issued an official statement clarifying its stance on the situation.

The BCB categorically stated that it is not aware of any travel restrictions imposed on Bijoy and has received no official notification regarding any such measures. Additionally, the Board addressed broader concerns about corruption in the BPL, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the tournament.

"The BCB strictly adheres to the ICC Anti-Corruption Code for Participants and maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption in any form," the statement read.

The Board also revealed that it is in the process of forming an Independent Inquiry Body to further support the ACU's ongoing investigations. "The BCB Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) is continuously monitoring all matters relating to integrity within Bangladesh cricket, addressing them with due confidentiality and discretion," it added.

The BCB assured that it remains dedicated to ensuring a fair and transparent cricketing environment and will take all necessary measures to safeguard the sport's integrity in Bangladesh.

Bijoy's performance in the BPL

Bijoy has been one of the standout performers in the ongoing BPL. He captained Durbar Rajshahi in eight matches before being replaced by Taskin Ahmed to allow him to focus more on his batting. Despite the change in leadership, Bijoy excelled, scoring an unbeaten 100 off 57 balls against Khulna Tigers—his second T20 century. Across 12 matches, he has amassed 392 runs at an average of 39.20, making him the third-highest run-scorer in the tournament so far.

Frustrated by the allegations amid his strong performances, Bijoy reiterated his commitment to defending himself legally. "Over the past two days, I have not had the chance to take legal action, but I have been speaking to my lawyer and will take the necessary steps. Negative news spreads fast, so it is crucial to clarify my position," he asserted.

Criticising the media's handling of the situation, he added, "I am shocked by these reports. The media is tarnishing a player's reputation—what satisfaction does this bring? Is it just for views? Everyone has a family, friends, and loved ones who read these stories. I don't know if this is a conspiracy or something else, but it is incredibly painful."