Summary:
- Durbar Rajshahi owner Shafiqur Rahman commits to clearing unpaid player/staff dues in three installments (25% on Feb 3, 25% on Feb 7, 50% by Feb 10) following law enforcement intervention.
- Government intervened after Rahman missed earlier Feb 2 deadline to pay 50% dues despite assurances to Youth & Sports Advisor Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan.
- Fact-finding committee investigating franchise irregularities as ministry vows legal action against those harming Bangladesh’s cricket reputation.
- Crisis stemmed from contractual breaches and media reports of financial mismanagement, with authorities preventing potential flight risk by owner.
Durbar Rajshahi franchise owner Shafiqur Rahman has pledged to clear all outstanding payments to players, coaching staff, and management in three installments after being questioned by law enforcement authorities. The commitment comes amid escalating disputes over unpaid fees during the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2025 season, which risked damaging Bangladesh’s international sporting reputation.
Payment Schedule Finalized
Rahman agreed to disburse 25% of owed amounts on February 3, another 25% on February 7, and the remaining 50% by February 10, 2025. Failure to meet this timeline could result in legal action against him. The Youth and Sports Ministry confirmed the plan in an official statement, noting the resolution followed Rahman’s interrogation on February 3.
Background of Broken Promises
The crisis stems from Rahman’s earlier failure to fulfill a February 2 deadline to pay 50% of dues, despite assurances to Youth and Sports Advisor Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan. Media reports later exposed allegations of contractual breaches and financial mismanagement, prompting government intervention. Concerns over Rahman’s potential flight risk and mounting legal complaints further accelerated official involvement.
Government Steps In
A fact-finding committee is now investigating systemic irregularities within the franchise. The ministry emphasized its commitment to safeguarding Bangladesh’s global image, stating it will pursue “appropriate legal measures” against those responsible for tarnishing the league’s credibility.
The resolution aims to stabilize Durbar Rajshahi’s operations while reinforcing accountability in professional cricket management. Authorities have vowed continued oversight to prevent similar issues in future tournaments.
Source: Cricket97
