The controversy surrounding the BPL auction further mired in crisis after Alex Marshall, independent chair of the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s newly formed Integrity Unit, made it clear that the omissions of nine players were based on findings from a comprehensive 900-page investigation report.
In this regard, the decision has raised questions throughout the cricketing fraternity, not least from excluded players such as Anamul Haque, who has demanded proof of wrongdoing.
900-Page Report Forms Basis of BPL Auction Exclusions
Marshall explained that the recommendations by the Integrity Unit were based on evidence contained in a voluminous report prepared by a three-member committee.
It is learnt that nine persons, including players and non-players were being advised not to invite for this year’s BPL auction.
Marshall said, though, that these players are not banned from cricket, but their adclusion is just a precautionary measure for maintaining the integrity of the event.
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“I have given enough advisories to avoid any recurrence in the future. They are just not invited this season to the BPL,” Marshall explained.
Evidence to be made public after investigation ends
With speculation mounting, Marshall promised transparency once the current “live investigation” is complete.
Evidence shall not be made available until due process is followed, whenever a plea of guilt is entered or independent tribunal findings of guilt are rendered.
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All the decisions and case details shall then be published online to bring clarity among the people and ensure accountability.
Plans for Criminal Legislation Against Sports Corruption
Mr. Marshall said discussions with Bangladeshi authorities are already in place to bring in criminal laws against corruption in cricket.
He said he intended to cooperate with the government in future months, adding:
“People involved in corruption should face criminal consequences. The legislation will protect the BPL and greater Bangladeshi cricket.
Strict Scrutiny for BPL Franchise Owners
The Integrity Unit will further extend its oversight to other areas to ensure a clean tournament ecosystem. Owners of franchises participating in BPL 12 will be subject to thorough background scrutiny.
Funding of franchises will be investigated, as well as the previous history of employees and the activities carried out to ensure that corrupt practices do not take hold. The warning from Marshall is that owners “will be left in no doubt” as to the consequences of their having enabled or overlooked misconduct.
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Watch out for the ‘Unpleasant Surprises’ before BPL Season
Noting the presence of suspected individuals at BPL auction tables, Marshall minced no words and served an advance notice of disciplinary actions on the cards for those found guilty. He proposed that some of those who have so far escaped sanctions may now face new sanctions.
Anti-corruption teams, with ICC support, are working actively to eliminate corrupt attempts targeting the upcoming season. “Some will be shocked before the commencement of the tournament,” warned Marshall.
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