BCB’s unique move to bridge gap with players

In what was a unique move by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), its president Aminul Islam Bulbul held an open value-sharing session with the players and coaches in the presence of the board's directors yesterday, less than 24 hours after arriving from a vacation in Australia.

The players, who left for Sylhet to continue preparations for the upcoming Netherlands T20Is and the Asia Cup, shared their opinions on issues affecting performance and suggested developments that could help improve the national team's output.

The session, termed a "share & care" programme, was aimed at strengthening the bond and encouraging direct and open communication that would help guide both the team and the board, with Aminul quoted in the press release as saying that the board is "committed to acting on the insights shared."

It was learnt that one key concern raised was the lack of quality practice wickets. Players also pointed to domestic scheduling, particularly the Dhaka Premier League (DPL). They requested the league to be played earlier than its usual March-April window to avoid excessive heat. Traveling to BKSP for matches was another challenge, as players cited Dhaka's heavy traffic congestion.

All-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz stressed on importance of expertise and facilities, citing these as key to "create an environment where players can truly grow and perform at their best."

According to a BCB director privy to the developments and the meeting, the board is preparing new venues for next season's DPL. The outer stadium in Fatullah is being developed with new soil and raised wickets, while two new grounds in Purbachal are also under construction.