BCB launches probe after Jahanara Alam’s harassment allegations rock Bangladesh Cricket

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has initiated a formal investigation following shocking accusations by former national women’s team captain Jahanara Alam, who claimed that several current and former board officials had subjected her to sexual harassment. The Jahanara Alam harassment allegations have triggered widespread outrage and prompted the board to take immediate action.

In a candid conversation on a YouTube channel, the 32-year-old fast bowler alleged that misconduct took place during the 2022 ICC Women’s World Cup in South Africa. She directly named Manjurul Islam, a former selector and team manager, among those accused.

According to Jahanara, Manjurul “engaged in inappropriate physical contact” with her and other players under the guise of motivation and encouragement. “He would often hug female cricketers or press them against his chest,” she stated, describing the behavior as humiliating and deeply uncomfortable.

Currently in China, Manjurul Islam strongly denied the claims, dismissing them as “completely baseless and fabricated.” “You can ask any of the players in the squad,” he said. “None of this ever happened.”

Manjurul, now 46, represented Bangladesh in 12 Test matches and 34 One-Day Internationals between 1999 and 2004, before moving into coaching and administrative positions with the BCB.

Jahanara, one of Bangladesh’s pioneering female cricketers, has been a key figure in the team’s rise. She has taken 48 wickets in ODIs and 60 in T20Is from 135 international appearances. During the interview, she revealed that she had previously lodged written complaints with the BCB, but no action was taken at the time.

In response to the Jahanara Alam harassment allegations, the BCB confirmed that it had formed a special inquiry committee to review the claims and submit its findings within 15 working days.

“The board treats these matters with utmost seriousness,” the BCB said in an official statement released Thursday evening. “We are fully committed to maintaining a professional, respectful, and harassment-free environment for all our players and staff.”

BCB vice-president Shakhawat Hossain emphasized the gravity of the situation, saying, “This is a sensitive and serious issue. We must investigate thoroughly and ensure justice is served, regardless of who is involved.”

The case has sent shockwaves through Bangladesh’s cricket community, raising questions about player safety, gender equity, and institutional accountability within the sport.