By Smrati Khare 15 hours ago
Bangladesh cricket star Tamim Iqbal has dismissed allegations of conflict of interest ahead of the Dhaka Premier League (DPL) 2025. The veteran opener, who will captain Mohammedan Sporting Club (MSC) while also being associated with Gulshan Cricket Club (GCL), has responded to concerns about his dual role in the tournament, which kicks off on March 3.
Speaking at a pre-tournament press conference at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Tamim clarified that his involvement with GCL is limited to sponsorship arrangements and does not constitute ownership.
“I am not the owner of Gulshan Cricket Club; there is a big difference. The media has created this narrative that I own Gulshan. I have only said that I am with the team,” Tamim stated firmly.
Tamim emphasized that bringing in sponsors for GCL does not affect his commitment to MSC and that his association with both teams should not be seen negatively.
“What’s wrong with leading one team and being associated with another? If I get out early against Gulshan, will you say I did it on purpose?”
He also pointed out the positive impact of securing sponsorships for new teams, highlighting that player payments and overall team sustainability rely on financial backing.
“Instead of always focusing on the negatives, consider the positives. If I hadn’t brought in sponsors and others didn’t step up, players’ payments would have been cut in half.”
Tamim further stressed that many players depend on sponsorships to continue playing professionally, and his involvement ensures more opportunities for cricketers in Bangladesh.
Tamim’s influence was also seen in the case of Litton Kumar Das, who was initially left without a team after going unsold in the BDPL player transfers. Recognizing his talent and importance to Bangladesh cricket, Tamim convinced GCL to sign Litton, ensuring that he gets the opportunity to play in the 2025 DPL season.
“You have to understand that players like Litton and Mustafizur are among the best in the country. It cannot happen that they don’t play in the Premier League.”
This move highlights Tamim’s leadership and commitment to the development of Bangladesh cricket, as he took the initiative to support talented players who might have been sidelined.
While Tamim was able to help Litton Das secure a spot, Mustafizur Rahman remains without a team after being released by Prime Bank. The left-arm pacer will now require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from his former club before he can sign with another team in DPL 2025.
There are reports suggesting that Mustafizur might instead opt to play in the IPL, as several Indian franchises have shown interest in signing him.
“Mustafizur has been one of the top performers for Bangladesh, both domestically and internationally. Someone needs to step up for him as well,” Tamim urged.
With the Dhaka Premier League 2025 set to begin on March 3, all eyes will be on how Tamim Iqbal balances his roles as Mohammedan Sporting Club’s captain and Gulshan Cricket Club’s supporter. The opening match of the tournament will be particularly interesting, as MSC and GCL face off in their first game.
Despite the controversy, Tamim remains confident in his ability to uphold fair play and professionalism while contributing to the growth of cricket in Bangladesh.
While allegations of conflict of interest continue to circulate, Tamim Iqbal has strongly defended his position, maintaining that his role as a leader and sponsor is only beneficial to the game. As the DPL 2025 season begins, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how this unique situation unfolds.
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