Israfil Khosru highlights quick action on players’ salary demands
A New Chapter for Domestic Cricket
In a move that has been widely praised by the sporting fraternity, the current ad-hoc committee of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has prioritized the welfare of domestic players. Having been in charge for nearly two months, the committee has already delivered one of its most anticipated reforms: a substantial increase in salaries and match fees for first-class cricketers. This decision marks a turning point, offering much-needed relief to athletes who have long struggled with stagnant compensation.
Addressing Long-Standing Grievances
For several years, the domestic cricket circuit in Bangladesh has been characterized by persistent calls for better pay and improved match fees. Despite the clear need for reform, previous administrations failed to implement meaningful changes, leaving players frustrated and undervalued. The landscape began to shift under the leadership of the current ad-hoc committee, which includes cricket icon Tamim Iqbal. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the board acted decisively, approving the salary hike during only its second board meeting.
Insights from the Finance Committee
The impact of this decision extends across both genders, as both male and female first-class cricketers have seen their monthly payments and match fees adjusted. Speaking on the popular BCB podcast, Char Chokka, BCB ad-hoc committee member and Finance Committee Chairman Israfil Khosru provided further context regarding the board’s swift methodology.
Khosru emphasized that the delay in such a critical matter was unnecessary and that meaningful change is possible with the right mindset. “If you truly want to do something like this, it can be done in a single board meeting,” Khosru stated. “We increased the salaries of first-class cricketers, both men and women, during only our second board meeting. In my opinion, this was something the players deserved for a long time. It could have been done earlier, but we came in and made it happen.”
Prioritizing the Players’ Contribution
For Khosru, this policy shift is not a gesture of charity or an arbitrary bonus. Instead, he views it as a fundamental responsibility of the board to recognize the sweat and dedication of those who sustain the sport. By rectifying these pay scales, the BCB is acknowledging the players as the essential pillars of the cricket infrastructure.
“The players are very happy, and they deserve it,” Khosru noted. “We are not giving them anything extra. This is something they have earned. You cannot move Bangladesh cricket forward while ignoring the players. They are at the heart of everything.” This sentiment reflects a broader commitment to professionalizing the domestic structure and ensuring that the pathway from the grassroots level to international cricket is sustainable and rewarding.
Looking Toward the Future
The proactive nature of the current committee has set a high bar for future governance. As the BCB prepares for upcoming elections, which are scheduled to take place on June 7, the focus remains on maintaining this momentum. Israfil Khosru, who has been instrumental in these financial adjustments, will be contesting the election from Category-2. His candidacy is viewed by many as an attempt to cement these progressive policies within the board’s long-term leadership structure. By ensuring that players are treated with the respect and financial security they have earned, the board is taking a vital step toward a more competitive and professional future for Bangladesh cricket.
