Key Points
- The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has set up a committee to probe Jahanara Alam’s allegations of sexual harassment by a former selector.
- The investigation will conclude with findings and recommendations within 15 working days, ensuring a safe environment for players.
- Jahanara Alam also alleged improper behaviour from two other BCB officials, with her claims previously reported to senior board members.
DHAKA: The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has initiated an official inquiry into allegations of sexual harassment made by fast bowler Jahanara Alam against a former selector during the 2022 ODI World Cup. The BCB has established a committee to investigate the claims and is set to present its findings within 15 working days.
In a statement released on Wednesday evening, the board emphasised its commitment to a thorough investigation and assured that appropriate action would be taken based on the committee’s conclusions.
“The Bangladesh Cricket Board has noted with concern the allegations reported in the media by a former member of the national women’s cricket team regarding alleged misconduct by certain individuals associated with the team,” the BCB said in its statement. “As this is a sensitive matter, the BCB has decided to form a committee to investigate the allegations thoroughly.
The committee will submit its findings and recommendations within 15 working days. The BCB is committed to ensuring a safe, respectful, and professional environment for all players and personnel. The Board takes such matters with the utmost seriousness and will act based on the investigation’s findings.”
The allegations were brought to light by Jahanara Alam, who is currently residing in Australia. In an interview, Jahanara claimed that the former selector, who also served as the women’s team manager, had asked her inappropriate questions during the World Cup. She also alleged that two other BCB officials had behaved improperly towards her.
According to Jahanara, she had reported these incidents to former BCB director Shafiul Islam Nadel and the board’s chief executive, Nizamuddin Chowdhury.
This investigation follows previous accusations made by Jahanara, where she accused Bangladesh’s captain Nigar Sultana, of physically abusing teammates. However, the BCB dismissed these earlier claims as “baseless.”
Jahanara Alam, a seasoned fast bowler, has represented Bangladesh in 135 white-ball matches, taking 48 wickets in ODIs and 60 in T20Is. She is also the only Bangladeshi player to have competed in prominent tournaments like the Women’s T20 Challenge in India and the FairBreak Invitational T20.
