A controversial remark by a Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) director labelling former national captain Tamim Iqbal as an “Indian agent” has triggered strong protests across Bangladesh’s cricketing fraternity, with current and former players condemning the comment as offensive and unprofessional.

The controversy erupted following Tamim’s recent comments on Bangladesh’s stance of not playing the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup matches in India. The issue gained traction after Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman was withdrawn from the Indian Premier League (IPL), with the BCB maintaining a firm position against playing in India.

Speaking at a press conference, Tamim Iqbal offered a measured view on the issue, saying decisions of such magnitude should be taken after careful consideration.

“If I were in the board, I would think about the country’s future and everything involved. Making hasty comments complicates matters. Often, many issues can be resolved through discussion. I would take my decision by considering Bangladesh’s position in world cricket and its future,” Tamim said.

Soon after, BCB director M Nazmul Islam reacted on social media, sharing a photo card of Tamim’s remarks and writing that another “tested Indian agent” had been exposed before the people of Bangladesh. The post drew widespread criticism and was later deleted amid mounting backlash.

Tamim’s elder brother, former national opener and team manager, described the comment as “highly disrespectful” in a social media post.

The remark also prompted strong reactions from national team cricketers, who publicly stood by the former captain.

Fast bowler Taskin Ahmed criticised the statement in a Facebook post, saying such remarks were harmful to the interests of Bangladesh cricket.

“Cricket is the lifeline of Bangladesh. A recent comment targeting a former national captain who has contributed immensely has troubled many. Such statements against a former cricketer are not helpful for the country’s cricket,” Taskin wrote, urging responsible conduct from concerned quarters.

Test regular Taijul Islam also condemned the remark, calling it distasteful and against the spirit of cricket.

“I am shocked by BCB director M Nazmul Islam’s words about former national captain Tamim Iqbal. Such language from a board official is not only offensive but completely unacceptable and contrary to our cricketing culture,” Taijul said.

He further demanded accountability, stating that public apologies and appropriate action were necessary to uphold professionalism, ethics and conduct within the board.

Former Test captain Mominul Haque echoed similar sentiments, terming the comment unacceptable and insulting to the cricket community.

“A senior cricketer was denied even basic respect and instead humiliated publicly. Such behaviour raises serious questions about professionalism and moral responsibility,” Mominul wrote, calling for a public apology and strict action against the director.

The Cricket Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB) also expressed strong condemnation. In a statement issued on Friday, the association said it was “stunned, shocked and angered” by the remark made against Tamim Iqbal.

The incident has intensified calls for greater accountability and restraint from cricket board officials, with many urging the BCB to take swift and decisive action to protect the dignity of the game and its players.