Former Bangladesh captain Faruque, who was elected BCB president in August, said he was in discussions with BPL franchises about payment settlement but did not want to elaborate on why the franchises (except Fortune Barishal) did not offer payment settlement. BCB subject to bank guarantee.
The board maintains bank guarantees from franchises under the rules to ensure players receive money from BCB if the franchise fails to make payments. BCB has in the past paid its costs through bank guarantees. However, this time, the players’ payments become uncertain due to the lack of bank guarantee.
“We have engaged with the BPL franchise owners from day one,” said Faruque. “Then they said I had to pay. If you ask me to answer in black and white as to why (didn’t the franchisee pay the deposit?), I can’t give you a clear answer. You have to see it.” This is the overall picture from everyone’s perspective over the past four months.
“But this does not mean that the players will not receive their payments. We have made other arrangements for the franchises. As Chairman of the Board, I have spoken directly to the franchises so that they feel that we are partners. They also make money for Bangladesh. I’m writing cricket.”
The issue emerged just days after a ticketing fiasco that saw angry fans smash the main gate of the Shea Bangla National Stadium on the opening day of the competition.
