Mirpur, April 8 (NationPress) The newly-elected president of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), Tamim Iqbal, convened his inaugural official meeting with the Board’s ad-hoc executive committee at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur on Tuesday. This meeting signifies the onset of a new administrative chapter for Bangladesh cricket. The BCB is set to conduct its next board meeting shortly.

Tamim Iqbal arrived at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium following the disbandment of the previous BCB leadership due to a corruption probe that found former chief Aminul Islam culpable during the last election.

After the meeting with the newly established ad-hoc committee, Tamim addressed the media, highlighting the pressing necessity to reclaim the board’s integrity. He stated, "I believe everyone recognizes that the harm inflicted on the reputation of cricket over the past one and a half years needs collective rectification," as he spoke to reporters.

He recognized that while criticism would likely continue, there exists a mutual obligation to restore respect in Bangladesh cricket. "Criticism will emerge based on our performance, but none of us desire to see cricket remain at its current low. We aspire for cricket to be a point of pride. Those affiliated with BCB should be proud to be associated here. The pride may be hard to express currently, given the past actions over the last year and a half. We must work diligently to regain that pride," he added.

Emphasizing the need for respect across the board, Tamim remarked, "Respect for players and all stakeholders is paramount. This will be our key focus. We aim to implement positive changes, not just in rhetoric. Mistakes may occur, both individually and as a team, but we will learn and strive to improve. This is our core objective."

The National Sports Council has directed the ad-hoc committee to conduct elections within 90 days, a task Tamim assured would be approached with honesty. "Our mandate is to ensure a fair and transparent election within three months. We will fulfill this responsibility with utmost integrity and promptness," he asserted.

When questioned about his potential involvement in the next election, he remained non-committal. "You would have to inquire personally whether I will participate in the next election. I might choose to run, or perhaps someone else will, or potentially neither. Once a free and fair election is organized, I will encourage all interested parties to participate."

Tamim also stressed the significance of inclusivity in the electoral process. "The upcoming board election will encompass current board members, players, and organizers—everyone should have a voice. We strive to foster an environment where all can participate in the election process."

In addition to overseeing the elections, the committee will also manage routine operations. "We will also attend to daily activities; the World Cup is approaching, as you are aware. We will take necessary actions regarding all matters," he noted.

Ad-hoc committee member Tanzil Chowdhury confirmed that Tamim Iqbal will represent Bangladesh in the forthcoming ICC meetings. "Our cricket board has representation at the ICC and ACC. Traditionally, the President attends these events. Therefore, we have appointed our President, Tamim Iqbal. Additionally, since we are an ad-hoc committee and not an elected board, the ICC has advised it would be beneficial for the CEO to attend as an ex officio member, which we have also approved," he mentioned.

Meanwhile, BCCI vice-president Rajiv Shukla conveyed his congratulations to Tamim Iqbal on his new role as BCB president. "Congratulations to Tamim Iqbal on becoming the President of the Bangladesh Cricket Board. His leadership as a former cricketer will bolster the prospects of cricket in his country and beyond. @TamimOfficial28, @BCBtigers.