The Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), known for its exciting field cricket, is currently facing a significant challenge this season. One of the pressing issues is the sensitive topic of match or spot fixing. Reports indicate that the Bangladesh Cricket Board and the ICC have initiated an investigation into some questionable incidents. Notably, Mohammad Saifuddin’s name has not been mentioned among those under scrutiny. However, there are ongoing discussions regarding an over from the Rangpur Riders’ recent match. In this challenging time, Saifuddin has the support of his franchise, Rangpur, as stated by the team’s director, Shahnian Tanim. His comments were in reference to Rangpur’s last match against Chittagong Kings, where Saifuddin bowled 10 deliveries in his third over, resulting in two no balls and two wides, and he gave away 22 runs. With the topic of fixing being heavily discussed around the BPL this season, many are interpreting ordinary events in an unusual light. After practice in Rangpur on Saturday, Shahnian mentioned that they are not paying any attention to the circulating rumors.
“A lot has been said about Saifuddin in the media, which affects a player. Because, if he has not done anything, then when he sees something like this, he will definitely feel bad. We all have families, we have to clarify something to them. Something like this has happened, I have spoken to Saifuddin. But I want to make one thing clear, Rangpur Riders is not the media. We may be our neighbors, but the players are our family. Our job is to ensure that there is no rift in the family. We all had dinner together yesterday as well.”
While the Saifuddin incident may be an isolated case, the recent performance of Rangpur’s cricket team has been concerning. After a strong start with eight consecutive wins that secured their place in the play-offs, they have now suffered four straight losses. This has raised questions about their ability to remain in the top two. If Chittagong wins their match against Fortune Barisal on Saturday, Rangpur will fall to third in the points table. Consequently, to reach the final, they must win both of their upcoming play-off matches. In light of this, the Rangpur team director emphasized the need for the team to concentrate on overcoming the off-field controversies.
“Our main task is to win the next match. We want to go to the final, where and who are being accused, that is not our concern at all. We are coming to practice today to win the next match. Our goal is to make sure we can go to the final.”