BPL probe committee submits preliminary report

Nearly six months into its formation, the three-member independent inquiry committee, constituted to examine allegations of corruption, mismanagement, and systemic failures in the previous edition of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), submitted its preliminary report on Tuesday.

In the absence of Justice Mirza Hussain Haider -- the convenor of the committee who is currently out of the country for treatment purpose -- other two members Shakil Kasem and Dr. Khaled H. Chowdhury submitted the primary report to BCB president Aminul Islam Bulbul on Tuesday evening.

The BCB in a press release said that in line with international best practice and ICC guidelines, the report will be reviewed in strict confidence and through proper processes.

"Any individuals or entities mentioned in the report remain subject to due process under the BCB Constitution, the ICC Anti-Corruption Code, and applicable laws," the BCB reiterates in a press release.

"At this stage, no names will be disclosed publicly, in order to protect the integrity of proceedings and the rights of all concerned… BCB will carefully review the Committee's recommendations and consider appropriate steps in due course," it added.

The board also notes that the preliminary report has proposed a series of urgent reform measures as a prerequisite to the proper holding of the next edition of the BPL, covering franchise governance, anti-corruption oversight, and structural safeguards.

The final report from the committee is expected to be submitted by the end of next month, which will include comprehensive findings and structural reform proposals, as per the press release.

The BCB, however, claimed that they will not make any further comments on, or in relation to the preliminary report.